October 2026 PC Game Releases: Lineup and Steam Next Fest Preview

October 2026 is shaping up to be an interesting month for PC gamers, bringing a mix of anticipated titles and the return of a popular event. While many eyes will be on the major releases, the month also offers a significant opportunity to explore upcoming games through the Steam Next Fest. This guide outlines the confirmed PC game releases for October and details what to expect from the festival.

October 2026 PC Game Release Calendar

Here's a look at the PC games scheduled for release in October 2026, including titles with specific launch days and those confirmed for the month. Details such as genre, developer, and publisher are included where officially available from the research notes.

Release Date	Title	Genre	Developer/Publisher	Platform
October 6, 2026	STAR WARS: Galactic Racer™	Racing	To Be Confirmed	PC
October 6, 2026	Hariti	Unspecified	To Be Confirmed	PC
October 2026	ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE	Unspecified	To Be Confirmed	PC
October 2026	Gears of War: E-Day	Unspecified	To Be Confirmed	PC
October 2026	Silver Pines	Unspecified	To Be Confirmed	PC
October 2026	Clive Barker's Hellraiser: Revival	Unspecified	To Be Confirmed	PC
October 2026	Permafrost	Unspecified	To Be Confirmed	PC
October 2026	Planet Zoo 2	Unspecified	To Be Confirmed	PC
October 2026	Valor Mortis	Unspecified	To Be Confirmed	PC

Key PC Releases and Demos to Watch

Beyond the full release schedule, October also brings a major event for discovering new games. Here's a closer look at some of the titles and events shaping the month for PC gamers.

STAR WARS: Galactic Racer™

Launching on October 6, 2026, STAR WARS: Galactic Racer™ plunges players into an unsanctioned racing circuit where victory is determined by skill and strategic prowess, rather than reliance on the Force. Syndicates sponsor pilots in this high-stakes competition, promising a fresh take on racing within the iconic Star Wars universe.

Hariti

Also slated for release on October 6, 2026, Hariti is another title joining the PC lineup. While specific genre and gameplay details are currently limited, its shared release date with a major franchise title suggests it's one to keep an eye on as more information emerges.

Gears of War: E-Day

Confirmed for an October 2026 release, Gears of War: E-Day marks a significant return for the beloved franchise. While detailed gameplay specifics for this PC title are still under wraps, its presence on the October calendar makes it a highly anticipated entry for fans of the series.

Planet Zoo 2

Following the success of its predecessor, Planet Zoo 2 is expected to arrive on PC in October 2026. While official feature lists are not yet widely available, the sequel is poised to expand upon the popular animal park management simulation, offering new challenges and creative opportunities for virtual zookeepers.

Discover New Worlds at Steam Next Fest: October 2026

Beyond individual game launches, October 2026 will host the highly anticipated Steam Next Fest. Scheduled to run from October 19 to October 26, 2026, this event is a crucial opportunity for players to explore hundreds of upcoming PC games. Developers will showcase playable demos, allowing gamers to get a hands-on preview of titles before their official release. To participate, games must have a public store page and a playable demo, with their full release planned any time after the festival concludes. It's an excellent chance to discover hidden gems and add new titles to your wishlist. October 2026 offers a blend of established franchises and new experiences for PC gamers. With specific release dates confirmed for some titles and the expansive Steam Next Fest on the horizon, the month promises plenty of new content. Which of these upcoming PC games are you most looking forward to trying out?