The Video Games And More You Should Play This Weekend – August 7, 2026

Big Walk

Eric Van Allen

Got a group of distant friends looking to reconnect? Turn off your typical voice channels, switch on proximity chat, and embark on a whimsical island expedition filled with lighthearted puzzles and hilarious antics. Big Walk has been generating immense buzz for good reason—it offers a uniquely collaborative co-op experience unlike anything else currently available. The interactive puzzles emphasize physical coordination and clever thinking without sliding into frustrating obscurity. Backed by stellar sound design, every session provides a fresh excuse to share a laugh with your inner circle. If your gaming group needs a standout cooperative journey, this should be at the top of your list.

Read Game Informer’s Big Walk Review

Pokémon Pokopia – Bubbly Basin DLC

Brian Shea

The first chapter of the Pokémon Pokopia expansion pass, Bubbly Basin, launched this week, delivering precisely what fans hoped for: more of a great thing. Originally captivating players earlier this year, Pokopia easily secured its spot as one of the standout titles of 2026. Alongside a free update introducing underwater diving and vital quality-of-life improvements, the paid DLC unlocks an entirely new aquatic biome. This vibrant region is packed with hidden underwater caves, approachable Pokémon companions, engaging objectives, and clever nods to classic Kanto locations. Thought you were finished with Pokopia? This expansion pulls you right back into its charming world.

Read Game Informer’s Pokémon Pokopia Review

Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls

Eric Van Allen

It is launch weekend for Tōkon, inviting enthusiasts to dive deeply into Arc System Works’ ambitious 4v4 fighter. While some early Steam reviews highlight minor Linux and anti-cheat hiccups, the core fighting mechanics are exceptionally entertaining. Launch periods are always the best time to experience fighting games, as the community bands together to master the roster and unravel complex systems. I’ve been experimenting with tag mechanics and character synergies, and my preferred lineup of Blade, Doctor Doom, Danger, and Black Panther feels remarkably strong. Fast-paced, visually stunning, and surprisingly deep, Tōkon is an absolute blast for weekend matches with friends.

Fields Of Mistria

Charles Harte

Fields of Mistria officially graduated from early access this week. For anyone waiting to dive into a cozy life simulator inspired by genre titans like Stardew Valley and Harvest Moon, the wait is finally over. Standing out in a crowded indie landscape is no small feat, but amassing over 20,000 positive reviews and selling a million copies within hours of launch speaks volumes. Between farming, fishing, combat, homestead decoration, magic, and a bustling village full of potential friends and spouses, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy. It is currently a PC exclusive, but hopefully, console ports are in the pipeline.

Lies Of P (Switch 2)

Kyle Hilliard

Soulslike titles inspired by FromSoftware’s legendary design philosophy are everywhere, but only a select few match their caliber. Lies of P—a dark, gothic reimagining of Carlo Collodi’s classic novel—stands proudly among them. Featuring fantastic gameplay beneath an unfortunate title, the game made its debut on the Switch 2. Initial impressions confirm that this portable port is a massive success, delivering crisp visuals and smooth performance that rivals other handheld configurations. If you fancy a gothic adventure battling mechanical terrors as a Victorian puppet, this version is well worth picking up.

Read Game Informer’s Lies Of P Review

Final Fantasy XIV (Switch 2)

Eric Van Allen

As the internet memes constantly remind us, the critically acclaimed MMORPG Final Fantasy XIV features a sprawling free trial extending through the award-winning Heavensward, Stormblood, and Shadowbringers expansions. With the game arriving on the Switch 2, holding out is no longer an excuse. Despite minor loading quirks, reports indicate the handheld hardware handles the computational load admirably. The massive free trial alone offers some of the finest narrative storytelling in modern gaming. While existing players will unfortunately need to purchase a secondary subscription for portable play, newcomers looking for a sprawling adventure will find plenty to love.

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2

Kyle Hilliard

Insomniac’s masterpiece remains exceptional. Earning a glowing 9.5/10 in our original review, the web-slinging sequel has continued to receive thoughtful updates and wardrobe additions over the years. Recently, developers surprised fans by introducing the sleek Spider-Man: Brand New Day suit alongside an alternate outfit inspired by Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls. Coupled with enhanced PSSR support for the PS5 Pro and a new Power Saver mode, there has never been a better excuse to swing back into action.

Read Game Informer’s Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 Review

Tabletop Pick – Everdell Emerland

Matt Miller

Venture deep into a mysterious jungle, deploy animal companions to gather precious gems, and unearth the hidden relics of an ancient civilization. Since its debut in 2018, the Everdell board game franchise has continually evolved through clever spin-offs and expansions. The latest entry, Emerland, transitions the series’ beloved worker-placement and tableau-building mechanics into a lush tropical setting complete with 3D ruins to explore.

Maintaining the breathtaking artistry and stunning table presence of its predecessors, Emerland adds slight strategic depth while remaining completely accessible to newcomers. Best of all, it functions as a standalone experience, making it an ideal starting point for anyone looking to explore the franchise. Copies are rolling out to local hobby shops right now.