'Game hunting with [KookminTree]'s Big Data Game Rankings for the first week of July 2026. Every week, [KookminTree] compiles game rankings based on search big data from major portals. Let’s see what titles have been capturing the attention of gamers this week.

Mobile – A fierce battle for the top spot

Greetings. Welcome to our first Big Data Game Ranking update for July 2026. Last week, I noted the arrival of a formidable rookie on the mobile charts: Netmarble’s 'Sol: Enchant'. It debuted in second place, breathing down the neck of the long-standing champion, 'Aion 2'. I predicted a potential shift in power, but a week later, the throne remains occupied. However, the gap has narrowed significantly.

The search volume difference between 'Aion 2' and 'Sol: Enchant' is now less than 1%. At this stage, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see either at the top. 'Aion 2' had been seeing a gradual decline in interest, while 'Sol: Enchant' was riding the wave of its launch hype. That was the primary logic behind my prediction, yet 'Aion 2' managed a successful rebound to defend its territory.

This rivalry requires a longer-term view. Currently, the momentum is clearly with 'Sol: Enchant'. If 'Aion 2' can hold out until late July, when the initial 'Sol: Enchant' launch buzz inevitably cools off, a long-term reign is still on the cards. All eyes are on this clash between two MMORPGs launched just six months apart.

Meanwhile, the return of 'Lineage M' to third place is worth noting. The 'Phoenix' update seems to be pulling its weight. With a focus on the Fairy class reboot, new content, and system overhauls, it became the title with the highest search growth in the mobile category for the first week of July—surpassing even the rise of 'Sol: Enchant'.

The mobile TOP 3 is now dominated by three MMORPGs. With 'Lineage M' potentially eyeing the top spot, July promises to be a chaotic month. Expect frequent position shifts in the mid-tiers as well, driven by various anniversary celebrations.

Online – MapleStory back in the TOP 3

'MapleStory' has reclaimed its spot in the online game TOP 3, pushing 'Lineage Classic' to fourth. Since 'Lineage Classic' debuted at third place back in February, 'MapleStory' has been stuck in fourth for five months. After patiently waiting for an opening, the breakthrough finally arrived in the first week of July.

The catalyst? A massive update featuring a new class. Momentum began building with the summer update showcase on June 13, followed by the first wave of content on June 18. The player response was overwhelming, making it the fastest-growing search term in the online category this week. A rise in the rankings was, quite frankly, inevitable.

Conversely, 'Lineage Classic' saw the second-largest drop in search volume this week. It seems the lack of notable activity since the 'Oren' update in early June has taken its toll. Even the first siege warfare event on June 21 failed to generate significant search traffic.

There is now a substantial gap between 'MapleStory' and 'Lineage Classic'. In the relatively stagnant online charts, bridging this distance won't be easy. Will the old guard of 'League of Legends – FC Online – MapleStory' maintain their dominance, or does 'Lineage Classic' have a counter-attack planned for later this month?

Along with 'MapleStory', 'Lost Ark' has seen a meteoric rise, climbing seven spots to secure fifth place. This is largely attributed to the summer event, which offers generous support for new and returning players. With the 'Mokoko Base Camp' for rapid leveling, expanded solo modes, and new matchmaking systems, the upward trajectory suggests it will lead the mid-tier competition for some time.

Meanwhile, 'Crazy Arcade BnB' continues to see an increase in search volume, landing in sixth place. This is the lingering effect of its service termination announcement. Following the pattern of 'Bubble Fighter', which saw increased interest for three to four weeks after its own shutdown notice back on June 24, expect it to remain in the upper echelons until mid-July.

Steam – Metcha Chameleon takes the crown

'Metcha Chameleon's impact is nothing short of impressive. After debuting at third place just a week ago, it has surged to number one in the first week of July. It has left giants like 'PUBG' and 'Crimson Desert' in its wake—a feat that perfectly captures the disruptive potential of a hit indie title.

The game has already surpassed 10 million units sold in just two weeks. Its unique blend of art and hide-and-seek mechanics has proven to be a winning formula. The developers are striking while the iron is hot, rolling out an update on June 25 that added new characters, body types, and poses, alongside various quality-of-life and balance adjustments. Its momentum shows no signs of slowing down.

Elsewhere, the 'Shengshi Tianxia' series continues its steady performance, while 'Dave the Diver' makes a return to the TOP 10, likely fueled by the new 'In the Jungle' DLC. On a side note, the developer Mintrocket teased a new title, 'Bancho the Chef', earlier in June. As a spin-off to 'Dave the Diver', it follows the journey of the beloved head chef as he evolves into a sushi master. No release date yet, but keep it on your radar.

Pre-orders – GTA 6 claims the top spot immediately

The most anticipated title of the second half of the year, 'GTA 6', has predictably taken the top spot upon opening pre-orders. In Korea, the Standard Edition is priced at 89,800 KRW, while the Ultimate Edition sits at 112,800 KRW. Interestingly, the physical packages won't contain discs; instead, they include a registration code for a digital download inside a collectible box.

Pre-orders are currently open for PS5 and Xbox Series X/S. Following series tradition, the console release will precede the PC version, which industry experts estimate will arrive about a year later. The console versions are set for November 19, so mark your calendars if you’re among those waiting for 'GTA 6'.