Waiting for GTA 6? These 5 classic action games still feel incredible in 2026 and are perfect for surviving the long release drought

The gaming industry is entering an unusual period in 2026. With Rockstar Games preparing to launch Grand Theft Auto 6 on November 19, many publishers appear reluctant to schedule major releases around what could become the biggest game launch in history. As a result, the final months before GTA 6 feel surprisingly quiet compared to a typical holiday season.


For players eagerly waiting for fresh announcements, this might be the perfect opportunity to revisit some older favourites. Many games from the late 2000s and early 2010s still offer fantastic gameplay, memorable stories and experiences that have aged remarkably well. Here are five nostalgia filled titles that deserve another playthrough while the countdown to GTA 6 continues.

• Release Date: November 15, 2011
• Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC, Nintendo Switch

Released in 2011, Saints Row: The Third embraced pure insanity and never looked back. While many open world games focused on realism, Volition's hit title leaned into outrageous humour, ridiculous weapons and over the top action.

Players take control of the Third Street Saints as they attempt to dominate the city of Steelport. From wrestling tanks to skydiving into enemy compounds, nearly every mission feels designed to create unforgettable moments. The remastered edition also makes the game look far better on modern hardware. If you want open world freedom without taking anything seriously, Saints Row: The Third remains one of the most entertaining games ever made.

• Release Date: August 14, 2012
• Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Few games have earned cult classic status quite like Sleeping Dogs. Released in 2012, the game follows undercover police officer Wei Shen as he infiltrates Hong Kong's dangerous criminal underworld.

What separates Sleeping Dogs from many crime games is its focus on martial arts combat. Hand to hand fights feel fast, brutal and satisfying, offering a refreshing alternative to constant gunplay. The game's recreation of Hong Kong also remains one of the most immersive urban environments ever created. Combined with strong characters and emotional storytelling, Sleeping Dogs continues to be one of the best open world action games available today.

• Release Date: December 4, 2012
• Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

When Far Cry 3 launched in 2012, it helped define many open world mechanics that are still common today. Capturing outposts, hunting wildlife, crafting upgrades and exploring a massive map all became staples of the genre.

The game follows Jason Brody, a tourist stranded on the dangerous Rook Islands after a disastrous vacation. His journey from ordinary young man to hardened survivor remains compelling more than a decade later.


Of course, much of the game's lasting popularity comes from Vaas Montenegro. His unpredictable personality and memorable dialogue helped create one of gaming's most iconic villains. Thanks to modern updates and improved performance, Far Cry 3 remains easy to enjoy in 2026.

• Release Date: June 26, 2012
• Platforms: PC, PS3, Xbox 360 (playable on modern systems through compatibility options)

At first glance, Spec Ops: The Line appears to be a traditional military shooter. However, players quickly discover something far more ambitious beneath the surface. Set in a devastated Dubai consumed by massive sandstorms, the game follows Captain Martin Walker on a mission that slowly descends into psychological horror. Rather than glorifying war, the story forces players to confront the consequences of violence and difficult moral decisions.

The campaign is relatively short compared to modern games, but its narrative impact remains powerful. More than a decade after release, many players still consider Spec Ops: The Line one of the boldest stories ever told in gaming.

• Release Date: October 1, 2003
• Platforms: PC, PS2, Xbox, GameCube

Freedom Fighters may be the oldest title on this list, but it remains one of the most underrated action games ever released. Developed by IO Interactive, the game presents an alternate history where the Soviet Union successfully invades the United States.


Players control Christopher Stone, a plumber who unexpectedly becomes a resistance leader in occupied New York City. One of the game's most innovative features is its squad command system, allowing players to recruit fighters and issue tactical orders during combat.

Despite launching in 2003, Freedom Fighters still feels unique today. Its memorable soundtrack, engaging missions and resistance driven story make it a hidden gem worth discovering or revisiting.