NACON and Lyon-based development studio Artefacts Studio has revealed its first gameplay trailer for MXGP 26, the official video game of the FIM Motocross World Championship. The trailer offers a glimpse into the major technological and gameplay innovations of this new installment, scheduled for release in October 2026.
Here’s a run down below on the gameplay trailer:
Unreal Engine 5: a photorealistic technological leap
Thanks to the transition to Unreal Engine 5, MXGP 26 achieves a historic visual milestone. The trailer showcases this striking photorealism through wide environmental shots, ultra-detailed mud textures under the rain, and precise mechanical close-ups (suspension, exhausts).
Redesigned physics and total helmet-cam immersion
Immersion is taken to the next level, notably through a gripping first-person helmet view, fully rewritten motorcycle physics, and completely reworked rider animations. The rider reacts dynamically to the track’s terrain, adopting realistic body movements during jumps, flat or banked turns, and while navigating ruts. Furthermore, the bike and gear progressively get dirty throughout the race, depending on the weather and soil conditions (dirt, sand, mud).
“Dynamic Deformation”: a living track that evolves in real time
The terrain in MXGP 26 is now alive. Dynamic deformation technology alters the track as riders pass through. As shown repeatedly in the trailer, the continuous passage of bikes digs deep, persistent ruts lap after lap, forcing players to constantly adapt their racing lines. Within just a few laps, the track is completely transformed from the start of the race!
Official 2026 season content in the spotlight
The trailer highlights a preview of the game’s rich official content and customization options:
- Iconic Tracks: Including Bariloche in Argentina (volcanic soil), Riola Sardo in Sardinia (sand), Pietramurata in Italy (compact dirt), and Loket in the Czech Republic (hard-pack dirt).
- Elite Riders: Across both MXGP and MX2 categories, players will find stars of the sport such as Romain Febvre, Maxime Renaux, Kay de Wolf, and Calvin Vlaanderen.
- Full Customization: A comprehensive editor allows players to design their rider and customize official machines from championship manufacturers (Kawasaki, Husqvarna, Yamaha, KTM, Honda…) with gear from leading brands (Fox Racing, Alpinestars, Scott, Airoh, etc.).
Whether competing in intense online races (up to 10 players), engaging in Grand Prix, Championship, and Time Attack modes, or freely exploring the vast training grounds of The Compound, MXGP 26 stands out as the ultimate motocross experience.