The world of sports video games continues to expand this year, offering fans of every major sport opportunities to play, compete, and connect with their favorite leagues and athletes. These franchises range from realistic simulations to fast paced arcade style experiences. Whether you are a casual gamer or a competitive player, there is a sports title that fits your style. Along the way players and fans often explore real world data such as DraftKings odds to compare virtual outcomes and real matchups, but the games themselves stand as immersive experiences in their own right.
Here is a look at the most popular sports game franchises that users can play in 2026, along with background on each one.
- EA Sports Madden NFL 26
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Genre: Football simulation
The Madden NFL franchise is the longest running and most successful American football video game series. Madden NFL 26 continues the tradition of realistic gameplay, detailed playbooks, online competition, and deep customization. EA Sports has refined the physics, AI behavior, and team dynamics to mirror the NFL’s real world strategy and player performance.
New features in the latest edition include enhanced franchise mode mechanics, improved player animations, and more engaging career paths. Whether you enjoy solo play, competitive matches, or creating your dream roster in Ultimate Team, Madden 26 remains the go to football title for fans.
- NBA 2K26
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Nintendo Switch
Genre: Basketball simulation
The NBA 2K series is widely regarded as the gold standard for basketball video games. Known for its stunning visuals, smooth controls, and deep MyCareer and MyTeam modes, NBA 2K26 continues to elevate the experience with realistic team dynamics and player progression systems.
In 2026 the game also expands its online ecosystems with seasonal events and collaborative challenges. Whether you prefer running with legends in historic modes or competing in ranked online play, NBA 2K26 offers something for every basketball fan.
- FIFA World Cup 2026 (EA Sports FC)
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Genre: Soccer / Football simulation
Soccer remains the most popular sport in the world, and the FIFA World Cup 2026 game captures the drama of international competition. With official licensing from FIFA and national teams, this title lets users simulate and play through the World Cup tournament with detailed player models, authentic kits, and dynamic crowd atmospheres.
In addition to World Cup mode, many players enjoy quick matches, skill challenges, and online competitions. The game’s deep tactical mechanics make it a favorite for serious soccer fans looking to manage formations and exploit real world strategies.
- EA Sports College Football 26
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Genre: American football simulation
After a long wait, EA Sports College Football returns as a fully licensed title, bringing collegiate football back into gaming. Unlike its professional counterpart, this version emphasizes school pride, dynamic stadium atmospheres, and unique team traditions.
Players can manage recruiting, develop athletes, and play through seasons with authentic college rosters. With customizable conferences and rivalries, the game gives fans the chance to experience the excitement of college football from kickoff through bowl games.
- MLB The Show 26
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Nintendo Switch
Genre: Baseball simulation
MLB The Show has become the premier baseball video game, known for arcade style accessibility paired with deep simulation mechanics. MLB The Show 26 continues this trend with more realistic pitching mechanics, expanded franchise mode features, and an engaging Diamond Dynasty online experience.
Whether fans want to manage their favorite team over a full season or try to build a dynasty from scratch, MLB The Show offers fun for both casual players and seasoned veterans.
- NHL 26
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Genre: Hockey simulation
Hockey fans have enjoyed the NHL series for its dynamic gameplay and fast pace. NHL 26 adds refined skating controls, enhanced team strategies, and more immersive broadcast presentation. The game also expands its career mode and online play features.
The physicality and speed of hockey translate well to video games, and its franchise modes give players total control over drafting, trades, and line management. NHL 26 also features special events and challenges that reflect popular formats from the real NHL season.
- PGA Tour 2K26
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Nintendo Switch
Genre: Golf simulation
Golf games offer a more relaxed, thoughtful experience compared to team sports. PGA Tour 2K26 provides realistic swing mechanics, detailed course recreations, and customizable golfers. Its emphasis on precision and strategy appeals to fans who enjoy patience and technique over fast reactions.
Players can compete in tournaments, create their own custom events, or challenge friends in online modes. The career mode lets you climb leaderboards, earn endorsements, and fine tune your player’s abilities.
- WWE 2K26
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Genre: Wrestling entertainment
Wrestling games blend sport and spectacle, and WWE 2K26 is the flagship franchise for fans of sports entertainment. The game features an extensive roster of WWE Superstars, detailed arenas, and dramatic story driven modes.
Its create a wrestler feature lets users design unique characters with custom move sets, outfits, and entrances. For fans of wrestling culture, the game also includes historic matchups and special event scenarios.
- Forza Motorsport 26
Platform: Xbox, PC
Genre: Racing simulation
While not a traditional team sport, racing games are a major part of the competitive sports gaming landscape. Forza Motorsport 26 delivers realistic driving physics, global circuits, and a massive lineup of licensed cars. Its career mode lets players participate in championships, fine tune vehicles, and race against AI or live opponents.
Forza appeals to sports fans who love speed, precision, and competition on four wheels.
Choosing the Right Game
Each of these sports game franchises offers a different style of play, from the strategic immersion of football and soccer sims to the high energy of racing and wrestling titles. Your ideal pick depends on your interests, whether that is managing teams, playing through seasons, engaging in competitive online play, or simply enjoying realistic simulations.
No matter what you choose, the sports gaming landscape in 2026 is rich with options that let fans interact with their favorite sports in new and exciting ways.
