Nacon and developer Artefacts Studio have officially revealed MXGP 26, the latest entry in the long-running motorcycle racing series. Accompanying the announcement is a new gameplay trailer showcasing the title's shift to Unreal Engine 5.

Quick Facts

  • Release Window: October 2026
  • Platform: PC (Steam, with Proton/Wine support)
  • Engine: Unreal Engine 5
  • Developers: Nacon, Artefacts Studio

Visual and Technical Upgrades

The transition to Unreal Engine 5 is the centerpiece of this year's technical improvements. According to the developer, the engine enables photorealistic environmental shots, enhanced mud textures that react to rain, and more precise mechanical modeling for components like exhausts and suspension.

Beyond visuals, the studio is introducing a dynamic track deformation system. As players navigate the course, the track surface will physically alter, creating a living environment that changes throughout the duration of a race. Physics and rider animations have also been completely rewritten to provide a more authentic simulation experience.

Content and Customization

The game will feature several iconic tracks from the sport, including:

  • Bariloche, Argentina (volcanic soil)
  • Riola Sardo, Sardinia (sand)
  • Pietramurata, Italy (compact dirt)
  • Loket, Czech Republic (hard-pack dirt)

Players will be able to race as elite riders from both the MXGP and MX2 categories, with stars like Romain Febvre, Maxime Renaux, Kay de Wolf, and Calvin Vlaanderen confirmed for the roster. For those who prefer creating their own look, a comprehensive editor will be available to customize official machines from major manufacturers—such as Yamaha, Kawasaki, KTM, Honda, and Husqvarna—alongside gear from brands like Alpinestars, Fox Racing, Airoh, and Scott.

New Gameplay Features

To deepen the sense of immersion, the developers are adding a new helmet-cam system, designed to offer a closer perspective of the action. This addition, paired with the updated physics and animation systems, aims to provide a distinct shift from previous entries in the series.