Upcoming Games - January 2026

Why January 2026 Is a Big Month for Collectors

As digital libraries continue to grow, physical game cases and cartridges remain essential for collectors, preservationists, and players who value ownership. January 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting month, bringing a strong lineup of major franchises and new IPs confirmed or expected to release in boxed editions across Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.

From cozy life simulators to dark action RPGs, these releases highlight why physical media is still very much alive.

📦 Why Physical Editions Still Matter

Physical copies offer advantages that digital simply can’t match:

• True ownership – no store closures or license removals

• Resale & trade value

• Collectible packaging (cover art, manuals, inserts)

• Offline access without downloads (or minimal patches)

• Long-term preservation for iconic titles

For flagship releases, publishers still recognize the demand for boxed cartridges and discs, especially for console players.

🕹️ Key January 2026 Physical Releases to Watch

🏝️ Animal Crossing: New Horizons (Switch 2 Edition)

Nintendo’s flagship life-simulation series is expected to arrive on Switch 2 with a full physical cartridge. Nintendo traditionally prioritizes physical releases for its core franchises, making this one of the most anticipated boxed games of the month.

Why it matters:
A must-own physical title for Switch collectors and long-term Nintendo fans.

⚔️ The Legend of Heroes: Trails Beyond the Horizon

The Trails series has a strong history of retail and deluxe physical editions, often including reversible covers, art books, or soundtracks depending on region.

Why it matters:
JRPG fans consistently favor physical copies, and Trails titles tend to hold collector value over time.

🌌 Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade

One of the most iconic modern RPG remakes, Intergrade’s arrival in new console formats makes its physical release highly desirable. Square Enix almost always supports boxed console editions for mainline Final Fantasy titles.

Why it matters:
A premium RPG experience that belongs on the shelf as much as on the console.

🩸 CODE VEIN II

Bandai Namco’s action RPG sequel is expected to release with standard physical editions and potentially collector or steelbook versions in select regions.

Why it matters:
Souls-like fans and anime-style RPG collectors often prioritize physical editions for long-term replay value.

🌠 MIO: Memories in Orbit

This visually striking action-adventure title is generating attention, and physical editions are expected for console platforms, especially via retail and import stores.

Why it matters:
Indie-styled titles with strong art direction often become cult physical collectibles later on.

🎯 Top Titles to Consider Pre-Ordering Physical Copies

🛒 What to Expect from Physical Pre-Orders

When pre-ordering physical editions, buyers can typically expect:

• Standard game cases (disc or cartridge)

• Possible day-one bonuses (codes, cosmetic DLC)

• Regional variations in cover art

• Limited deluxe or collector editions (for select titles)

🛒Limitversegames open pre-orders weeks before launch.

✅ Final Verdict

January 2026 is a strong month for physical game collectors.
With major franchises like Animal Crossing and Final Fantasy, alongside RPG favorites such as Trails Beyond the Horizon and CODE VEIN II, the demand for boxed game cases and cartridges remains undeniable.

For players who value ownership, shelf presence, and long-term access, pre-ordering physical editions is still the smartest choice. Digital may be convenient—but when it comes to legacy, collectability, and true control, physical games continue to win.

🎮 If you care about your collection, January 2026 is not a month to skip.