The Reign of ‘Resident Evil’ Continues: Analyzing PlayStation Store Pre-Order Trends in 2026
The latest pre-order charts from the PlayStation Store reveal a familiar story: dominance by the “Resident Evil” franchise. But what does this trend signify for the gaming landscape, and which other titles are poised for success?
Shifting Landscape: PS5 Takes Center Stage
As PlayStation 4 games grow less relevant, a wave of new PS5 titles are hitting the market, and the PlayStation Store is the primary destination for pre-orders. This provides a clear indication of consumer interest before a game even launches.
‘Resident Evil Requiem’ Holds Strong, But Competition is Rising
Unsurprisingly, “Resident Evil Requiem” currently tops the charts in both standard and deluxe editions. But, with its launch on February 27th, 2026, across PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, this position is expected to shift. Early copies have already surfaced, leading to spoilers for eager fans.
Wrestling and Open-World Adventures Gain Traction
“WWE 2K26”, slated for early March, also boasts multiple editions in the pre-order rankings, with the Monday Night War Edition being the most expensive and successful. “Crimson Desert”, an open-world adventure from Pearl Abyss, is also performing well, with two versions appearing in the top 20. Extensive previews have generated significant interest in this title.
Other Notable Pre-Orders
Various editions of “Diablo 4: Lord of Hatred” and the “Diablo 4: Age of Hatred” collection are also securing placements in the charts. “Marathon” is showing moderate pre-order numbers, though it’s not expected to be a blockbuster.
Top 20 Most Pre-Ordered Games on the PlayStation Store (February 23, 2026)
- Resident Evil Requiem Deluxe Edition (€89.99)
- Resident Evil Requiem (€79.99)
- WWE 2K26 Monday Night War Edition (€149.99)
- Crimson Desert (€79.99)
- Crimson Desert (€69.99)
- Diablo 4 Lord of Hatred Standard Edition (€39.99)
- WWE 2K26 King of Kings Edition (€99.99)
- Monster Hunter Stories 3 Twisted Reflection Premium Deluxe Edition (€99.99)
- WWE 2K26 Attitude Era Edition (€129.99)
- 007 First Light (€69.99)
- Monster Hunter Stories 3 Twisted Reflection (€69.99)
- Icarus Console Edition (€39.99)
- WWE 2K26 Standard Edition (€79.99)
- Diablo 4 Collection Age of Hatred (€69.99)
- Diablo 4 Lord of Hatred Ultimate Edition (€89.99)
- Marathon Deluxe Edition (€59.99)
- Diablo 4 Lord of Hatred Deluxe Edition (€59.99)
- Tokyo Xtreme Racer (€49.99)
- Legacy of Kain Collection Heart of Darkness (€44.99)
- Marathon Standard Edition (€39.99)
What These Trends Tell Us About the Future of Gaming
The continued success of “Resident Evil” highlights the enduring appeal of the survival horror genre. The strong pre-order numbers for “WWE 2K26” demonstrate the consistent demand for sports entertainment games. The emergence of titles like “Crimson Desert” suggests a growing appetite for expansive open-world experiences.
The Power of Deluxe Editions
The prevalence of Deluxe and Ultimate Editions in the top 20 indicates that gamers are increasingly willing to pay a premium for bonus content, such as costumes, skins, and early access. This trend is likely to continue as developers seek to monetize their games beyond the initial purchase price.
The Importance of Pre-Order Data
Sony’s release of this data provides valuable insights into consumer preferences. While the exact methodology isn’t disclosed, the rankings offer a snapshot of which games are generating the most buzz and anticipation. This information can support developers refine their marketing strategies and allocate resources effectively.
FAQ
Q: What is the most pre-ordered game on the PlayStation Store right now?
A: Currently, it’s the Deluxe Edition of “Resident Evil Requiem.”
Q: How much does the most expensive pre-order cost?
A: The WWE 2K26 Monday Night War Edition is the most expensive, priced at €149.99.
Q: Where can I find more information about these games?
A: You can find more details on the PlayStation Store and the official websites of the respective game developers.
Did you know? The “Resident Evil” franchise has sold over 137 million units worldwide, making it one of the best-selling video game franchises of all time.
Pro Tip: Retain an eye on pre-order bonuses! Often, pre-ordering a game can unlock exclusive content that isn’t available after launch.
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