The year has just started, and I know some of you out there are waiting for something new and exciting. Why not try playing new games this January?
Let’s explore the upcoming PC games of 2026, and together, let’s stream with seamless audio to better engage our audience using a reliable gaming microphone.
Today, we recommend the Maono PD100W for game streaming—a versatile gaming USB microphone designed to deliver clear voice quality. Let’s check out its unique features and why it’s considered a good microphone for gaming by many content creators in PC gaming.
The start of a new year is always exciting for PC gamers, and January 2026 is shaping up to be a strong opening month. Developers are kicking off the year with creative new titles, long-awaited sequels, and fresh IPs that appeal to both casual players and competitive gamers. At the same time, game streaming and eSports content creation continue to grow, making high-quality audio and clear commentary more important than ever—especially when using a gaming microphone PC setup.
In this guide, we’ll break down the top upcoming PC games of January 2026, explore how to become an eSports commentator, and discuss the essential skills every successful caster needs. We’ll also take a close look at the Maono PD100W, a popular budget-friendly, one of the best microphone for gaming options, to see whether it’s a good choice for PC gaming, live streaming, and eSports commentary.
Top 10 Upcoming Games in January 2026
January 2026 offers a diverse lineup of PC games across genres such as survival, RPGs, indie adventures, and action titles. Here are the ten most anticipated releases to keep on your radar—perfect for showcasing with a quality microphone for computer gaming during live streams.
1. StarRupture
StarRupture is a sci-fi survival shooter that blends base-building, exploration, and fast-paced combat. Set on a hostile alien planet, players must gather resources, fight off alien threats, and survive dynamic environmental hazards. Its cooperative gameplay and tense atmosphere make it ideal for both solo play and live streaming.
2. Pathologic 3
Pathologic 3 continues the series’ tradition of psychological storytelling and moral dilemmas. This narrative-driven game challenges players with difficult choices, time pressure, and haunting visuals. It’s perfect for streamers who enjoy deep discussions and immersive storytelling with their audience.
3. Big Hops
Big Hops is a colorful indie platformer that focuses on precision movement and creative level design. With its lighthearted art style and challenging gameplay, it’s a great option for streamers who enjoy speedruns, challenges, and interactive audience engagement.
4. Quarantine Zone: The Last Check
This tense survival game places players in charge of inspecting survivors during a post-apocalyptic outbreak. Decisions matter, and one mistake can spell disaster. Its slow-burn tension and decision-based gameplay make it excellent for commentary-driven streams.
5. Craftlings
Craftlings is a sandbox management game where players guide small creatures to build, explore, and survive. The relaxed pace and creative freedom make it appealing for casual streams and content creators who enjoy community interaction.
6. Legend of Heroes: Trails Beyond the Horizon
A highly anticipated JRPG, Trails Beyond the Horizon expands the beloved Legend of Heroes universe. With deep lore, turn-based combat, and character-driven storytelling, it’s a strong pick for long-form playthroughs and RPG-focused channels.
7. BrokenLore: Unfollow
BrokenLore: Unfollow is a psychological horror game that explores themes of social media, identity, and fear. Its unsettling atmosphere and narrative twists make it a compelling choice for horror streamers and reaction-based content.
8. Mio: Memories in Orbit
This indie action-adventure game blends emotional storytelling with stylish combat. Players explore a mysterious world while uncovering fragmented memories. Its cinematic presentation and soundtrack are ideal for immersive streaming sessions.
9. Highquard
Highquard is a competitive action game that emphasizes skill-based combat and strategic play. With ranked modes and fast matches, it has strong potential in the eSports scene and is well-suited for competitive streaming.
10. The Seven Deadly Sins: Origin
Based on the popular anime franchise, this open-world action RPG features familiar characters, flashy combat, and expansive environments. Its built-in fanbase makes it a high-interest title for streamers looking to attract anime and RPG fans.
How to Be an eSports Commentator
Becoming an eSports commentator, often called a caster or shoutcaster, requires more than just loving games. It involves understanding competitive play, communicating clearly, and entertaining an audience in real time. Clear audio captured through a dependable gaming microphone helps build credibility and keeps viewers engaged.
Consistency is key. Regular practice helps improve delivery, pacing, and confidence. Networking within gaming communities and participating in amateur tournaments can also open doors to larger opportunities.
Essential Skills Every Successful eSports Caster Needs
Successful eSports commentators share several core skills:
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Game Knowledge
Deep understanding of game mechanics, strategies, and meta trends.
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Clear Communication
The ability to explain complex plays in simple terms.
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Voice Control
Proper tone and pacing supported by a good microphone for gaming
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Improvisation
Live matches are unpredictable, so quick thinking is essential.
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Audience Awareness
Knowing when to hype up moments or slow down analysis.
High-quality audio equipment is also crucial, as clear sound helps establish credibility and professionalism.
Maono PD100W Review: Is It Good for Streamers and Gamers in PC Gaming?
The Maono PD100W is a dynamic USB/XLR microphone designed for streamers, gamers, and podcasters. Its versatility allows users to start with a simple USB setup and later upgrade to XLR without replacing their mic. This makes it appealing for beginners and growing content creators.
The PD100W focuses on vocal clarity while minimizing background noise, which is especially useful in gaming environments.
Is the Maono PD100W Good for Gaming and Live Streaming?
Yes, the Maono PD100W performs well for gaming and live streaming. Its dynamic capsule is less sensitive to ambient noise compared to condenser microphones, which helps reduce keyboard clicks, PC fans, and room echo—ideal for a gaming microphone PC environment.
What Are the Notable Features of the Maono PD100W Microphone?
Features of the Maono PD100W include:
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Dual USB and 2.4 GHz Wireless Modes
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Dynamic microphone design for 3-level noise reduction
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Cardioid pickup pattern for focused voice capture
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Solid build quality for desk and boom arm setups
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Simple plug-and-play USB operation for beginners
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8 color RGB & lighting mode to customize your vibe
- Maono link compatible to fine-tune your audio
These features make it a strong contender for the best microphone for gaming in its price range.
Is Maono PD100W Better Than Other Budget Streaming Microphones?
In its price range, the Maono PD100W stands out due to its dual connectivity and dynamic design. While some budget USB microphones offer convenience, they often pick up more background noise. The PD100W provides better control and flexibility, especially for users planning to upgrade their streaming setup over time.
Can the Maono PD100W Reduce Background Noise for Streamers?
Yes, background noise reduction is one of the PD100W’s strengths. Its dynamic capsule and cardioid pattern focus on sound coming directly from the front of the microphone. This helps minimize unwanted noise from the sides and rear, resulting in cleaner audio during streams and recordings.
How Do You Properly Set Up the Maono PD100W for PC Streaming?
To get the best results:
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Position the microphone close to your mouth (about 6–8 inches).
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Use a boom arm or stable stand to reduce desk vibrations.
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Set input levels correctly in your streaming software.
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Apply light noise suppression and compression if needed.
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Monitor your audio with headphones to avoid clipping or distortion.
A proper setup ensures professional-sounding streams even on a budget.
Conclusion
January 2026 is packed with exciting PC game releases that cater to a wide range of players and content creators. From immersive RPGs and indie adventures to competitive action titles, there’s no shortage of games worth playing and streaming. For those interested in eSports commentary, building strong skills and investing in reliable audio gear can make a significant difference.
The Maono PD100W stands out as a reliable gaming microphone for streamers and gamers seeking clear, focused audio without overspending. Paired with the right games and consistent practice, it can help elevate your streaming and eSports commentary journey throughout 2026 and beyond.