PAX East 2026 once again showcased a diverse lineup of titles across genres — from competitive battlers and narrative adventures to experimental indies and tabletop experiences. While the event may not carry the same scale as in previous years, it continues to highlight creativity and innovation across the industry.

Here are some of the most notable games presented at the event.

Pokémon Champions

Nintendo’s Pokémon Champions focuses on competitive battling, delivering a familiar yet polished experience for fans of the series.

The demo centered on double battles using pre-built teams, allowing players to select lineups and strategize against opponents without access to deeper systems like training or recruitment. Core mechanics remain true to the franchise, including type advantages, switching Pokémon, and item usage.

Visually, the game stands out with improved models and vibrant battle arenas. While questions remain about accessibility for players without existing Pokémon collections, the title shows promise as a streamlined competitive experience.

• Developer: The Pokémon Works
• Publisher: Nintendo, The Pokémon Company
• Release Date: April 8, 2026
• Model: Free-to-play

Sprout

Sprout, a tabletop game by NYC-based studio Rabble, offers a relaxed yet strategic experience centered around plant care.

Players collect resources such as sunlight, water, fertilizer, and “love” to grow plants and progress across the board. The game introduces a risk-reward mechanic where staying in play longer yields more resources — but can also lead to penalties like overwatering.

Blending accessible mechanics with light competition, Sprout captures the feel of modern casual board games while maintaining strategic depth.

• Developer/Publisher: Rabble
• Release: TBD

Halloween

IllFonic’s Halloween adapts the iconic horror franchise into an asymmetric multiplayer experience, following the formula established in Friday the 13th: The Game.

Players either take on the role of Michael Myers or attempt to survive as civilians. The gameplay revolves around stealth, evasion, and survival, with Myers acting as a slow but lethal hunter capable of surprising players through environmental movement.

While the demo showed technical issues such as bugs and performance drops, the core concept remains engaging. With further polish, the game could become a strong entry in the social multiplayer horror genre.

• Developer: IllFonic
• Release Date: September 8, 2026

Bubsy 4D

Bubsy 4D, developed by Fabraz, marks the franchise’s return to 3D platforming after decades. The game blends classic platforming design with modern visuals and humor.

Built on the studio’s experience with Demon Tides, the game features smooth movement, stylized environments, and self-aware humor. Early impressions suggest improvements over the studio’s previous work, particularly in gameplay flow and overall polish.

• Developer: Fabraz
• Publisher: Atari
• Release Date: May 22, 2026

of the Devil

Developed by Boston-based nth Circle Studios, of the Devil is a narrative-driven investigation game inspired by titles like Ace Attorney and Danganronpa.

Players gather evidence and defend clients in courtroom trials, with a unique blackjack-inspired mechanic shaping cross-examinations. Strong writing and distinctive visual style help bring the world and characters to life.

The episodic structure is already underway, with multiple chapters available and more planned.

• Developer/Publisher: nth Circle Studios
• Release: Ongoing episodic rollout

Valor Mortis

From the creators of Ghostrunner, Valor Mortis takes a different direction as a first-person Soulslike set in an alternate version of the Napoleonic era.

Players control a resurrected soldier, combining melee combat, firearms, and supernatural abilities. The game features familiar Soulslike elements such as parrying, checkpoints, and challenging bosses, alongside exploration systems inspired by Metroidvania design.

Early impressions highlight responsive combat and strong gameplay foundations, positioning it as a potentially standout release.

• Developer: One More Level
• Release: 2026

Jigrift

Jigrift, developed by Empty Castle Games and published by Whitethorn Games, introduces a unique puzzle concept built around rearranging the world itself.

Players control a frog named Bert, who can zoom out and manipulate islands like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. By rotating and connecting these pieces, new paths, areas, and story elements become accessible.

Combined with a cozy art style and thoughtful design, Jigrift stands out as a creative and visually appealing puzzle experience.

• Developer: Empty Castle Games
• Publisher: Whitethorn Games
• Release: H2 2026

Overall, PAX East 2026 demonstrated that while blockbuster presence may fluctuate, the event remains a strong platform for innovation — particularly in the indie space, where new ideas and experimental mechanics continue to thrive.

Caitlyn has officially been added as the newest champion to the 2XKO roster. Notably, the developers have confirmed plans to release a total of five champions throughout 2026.

Recently, Akali and Senna were also announced as upcoming additions. The developers even shared a brief sneak peek, offering a glimpse into how both characters will perform in gameplay.

More details about 2XKO are expected to be revealed during PAX East 2026 on March 27. The presentation, scheduled for 12:00 p.m. EDT, will cover several Riot projects, including Teamfight Tactics: Space Gods, Riftbound: League of Legends Trading Card Game, 2XKO, and Valorant.

Some fans speculated that this event could feature Akali’s gameplay trailer. However, Ben Forbes, Editor-in-Chief of 2XKO, quickly dismissed that possibility.

This has led to growing expectations that Senna may instead receive a gameplay reveal. If so, it could indicate that she will be released before Akali as the next playable champion.

There is also a chance that the developers will unveil the remaining two champions planned for release later this year. For now, fans will have to wait and see what surprises are in store.

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