Tokyo Game Show (TGS) 2026 was absolute sensory overload in the best way possible. From jaw-dropping AAA booth builds to some of the weirdest and most creative indie concepts I’ve ever laid eyes on, the show floor was buzzing from day one.
While the event was originally slated to break records with an expanded 5-day run (up from the traditional 4), severe weather unfortunately forced organizers to pull the plug on the final day. Despite the truncated schedule, TGS 2026 delivered in a huge way.
The Selected Indie 80 area was arguably the most exciting corner of the convention. TGS selected just 80 developers out of a staggering 1,500+ applicants, and the sheer creativity on display was wild, such as a virtual reality title where the only way to move your character forward is by rapidly shaking your head like a maniac to a high-concept, first-person rhythm game set in the 17th century.
It wouldn’t be TGS without AAA studios pulling out all the stops, and two booths stood out for me. Square Enix turned their floor space into a photo-op paradise. Front and center was a massive, glowing replica of the iconic Final Fantasy VII meteor, alongside dramatic stage recreations of fan-favorite scenes (including Sephiroth’s infamous descent). Attendees also queued up for hands-on time with playable demos of the highly anticipated Final Fantasy VII Revelations.
Pocketpair opted for pure chaos and crowd interaction. Beyond showing off upcoming titles from their publishing partners, the booth felt like a mini-theme park complete with ridable motorized Pals, claw machines, and live virtual Pal races were attendees got to pick their Pals and see if they won.
A stop by the Gravity Game Arise booth provided a look at familiar favorites like Light Odyssey, Aeruta, and Jaleco Arcade Collection Vol. 1 & 2. However, the real head-turner was a fresh look at their main event, Ragnarok Project. The major news here? Ragnarok Project is officially heading to consoles, a massive milestone for the franchise. The team is currently targeting a launch window in 2027, and it’s definitely one to keep on your radar.
— Kevin D, Client Success
PHOTO DUMP!!
That’s a wrap on TGS 2026. Such a cool game event.
Thanks to Kevin D for sharing a glimpse of his trip and thank you for reading!
See you next time!!