Top 20 most played games on PlayStation and Xbox in 2026: live service and sports games

In brief

• In 2026, live service games and annual sports games dominate the top 20 most played titles on PlayStation and Xbox.
• Fortnite remains the undisputed number one on both platforms, with Roblox and GTA 5 Remastered close behind.
• On Xbox, Minecraft and Forza Horizon 6 are prominent in the top 10, while those titles are absent on PlayStation.

Analysis from GAME-scanner

According to Mat Piscatella of Circana, the lists of most played games on PlayStation and Xbox are remarkably similar. Fortnite, which is constantly adding new content and events, keeps its top spot. The popularity of live service games, which keep players engaged for longer periods, is shaping the development of new titles. This could lead to a shift away from one-time purchases toward games that continue to attract players through regular updates and seasonal events. Call of Duty, which is more popular on PlayStation, shows how platform preferences can influence a game’s popularity.

What does this mean for players?

For gamers, this trend means that choosing a platform is increasingly about the community and the games friends are playing, rather than just exclusive titles. The rise of live service games like Fortnite and Roblox could influence the development of future games, with developers focusing on long-term engagement. That can have both positive and negative effects on the diversity of the gaming industry, as a focus on popular formulas may leave less room for innovation.