PAX Rising has always been the heart of PAX East — the place where future cult classics, breakout indies, and unexpected gems first step into the spotlight. This year’s lineup was stacked with creativity, nostalgia, and bold ideas, and the crowd energy around these booths made it clear which games were resonating most with players. Based on hands‑on impressions, booth traffic, and community buzz, these are the Top 10 Best of PAX East 2026, built entirely around the games confirmed at the show.

1. ShantyTown

Developer: Silk Softworks Publisher: Kinephantom Games

ShantyTown was the cozy‑builder everyone kept talking about. Its diorama‑style construction, Creative Mode freedom, and warm, lived‑in aesthetic made it one of the most consistently packed booths of the weekend. Fans lined up to meet solo dev Erik Rempen, try the full build, and grab exclusive goodies. With its April 16 launch approaching, ShantyTown walked out of PAX Rising and Pax East as one of the event’s biggest winners.

2. Pokémon Pokopia

Developer: Game Freak / Nintendo

Pokémon Pokopia drew massive crowds with its vibrant booth and hands‑on demo. The game’s new region, expanded creature interactions, and Pokopia‑specific mechanics made it a standout for both longtime fans and newcomers. The booth’s energy never dipped — a clear sign that Pokopia is shaping up to be one of the franchise’s most refreshing entries in years.

3. Aniimo

Developer: Independent

Aniimo charmed players with its expressive art style and creature‑driven mechanics. The booth became a quiet favorite among attendees looking for something heartfelt and imaginative. Its blend of exploration, creature bonding, and puzzle‑like environments made it one of the most surprising hits of the showcase.

4. God Save Birmingham

Developer: Independent

One of the most unique games at PAX East, God Save Birmingham blends gritty storytelling with stylized strategy gameplay. Its alternate‑history setting and sharp writing drew in players who wanted something with teeth. The booth’s demo sessions filled up fast, and word‑of‑mouth carried it through the weekend.

5. Pokémon Champions

Developer: Game Freak / Nintendo

Pokémon Champions delivered a competitive‑focused spin on the franchise, and fans loved it. The booth featured structured battles, new champion‑tier mechanics, and a polished demo that highlighted the game’s strategic depth. It was one of the most talked‑about Pokémon showings at PAX East.

6. Star Ocean

Developer: Square Enix

Star Ocean’s presence at PAX East brought a wave of nostalgia and excitement. The demo showcased updated combat, modernized visuals, and a renewed focus on character‑driven storytelling. Fans of the series flocked to the booth, and newcomers walked away impressed by how approachable the latest entry felt.

7. Prophecy Walker

Developer: Independent

Prophecy Walker stood out with its atmospheric worldbuilding and narrative‑driven exploration. The booth offered a hands‑on slice that highlighted its branching story paths and unique traversal mechanics. It became a sleeper hit among players who gravitate toward story‑heavy indies.

8. Super Mario Bros. Wonder

Developer: Nintendo

Mario’s appearance at PAX East brought a burst of color and nostalgia to the show floor. Wonder’s booth featured themed photo ops, fast‑paced demo stations, and a constant crowd of families, speedrunners, and longtime fans. Even months after release, the game’s presence was a celebration of Nintendo’s platforming legacy.

9. Tainted Grail

Developer: Awaken Realms

Tainted Grail brought dark fantasy energy to the showcase with its hybrid RPG‑roguelike design. The booth demo highlighted its atmospheric world, tactical combat, and deep progression systems. It appealed to players looking for something heavier and more strategic than the typical PAX East fare.

10. Tiny Metal 2

Developer: Area 35

Tiny Metal 2 delivered tight, fast, Advance Wars‑style tactics gameplay that strategy fans devoured. The booth featured competitive skirmishes, new units, and updated mechanics that refined the original’s formula. It was one of the most polished tactical offerings at the show.

PAX East Final Thoughts

PAX East 2026 was a reminder of why this showcase matters: it’s where creativity thrives, risks are rewarded, and players get to discover the next wave of standout titles before the rest of the world catches on. From cozy builders to tactical battlers to major franchise entries, this year’s lineup delivered variety, personality, and a whole lot of heart.