MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson) and author James Patterson revealed the cover and release date for their co-authored thriller novel, “The Most Dangerous Games.” HarperCollins will publish the book globally on September 1, 2026.

The announcement came via a trailer video posted to YouTube. Pre-orders are currently available through multiple retailers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, and MrBeast.Store.

Book Details

The novel centers on 100 players competing in a high-stakes survival contest set in a world on the brink of collapse. The winner receives one billion dollars and the chance to save humanity.

HarperCollins will release three editions. A Target-exclusive edition includes a distinct cover, stenciled edges, illustrated endpapers, and bonus content, available on the first printing only. Deluxe and standard hardcover editions are available through other major retailers. The book goes on sale at all major retailers beginning September 1.

The novel will be released internationally, with pre-orders available through retailers in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and other markets.

Author Statements

Donaldson framed the project around youth readership. “Growing up, I thought books were boring. As I got into my 20s I realized I was just reading the wrong books and they can be exciting if it’s the right match,” he said. “I wanted to make something that would draw young people in and get a whole generation psyched about reading again.”

Patterson emphasized the collaborative nature of the project. “Jimmy Donaldson and I had a clear mission for ‘The Most Dangerous Games’: to create the most spellbinding, surprising, and exciting thriller we could to delight our fans,” he said. “Jimmy has the best storytelling instincts of anyone I’ve worked with, and we had a great time working in collaboration, going back and forth with ideas, making the novel better and better every step of the way.”

Donaldson operates the most-subscribed YouTube channel in the world and founded Beast Industries, a global entertainment and consumer products company. Patterson has received an Edgar Award, ten Emmy Awards, the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation, and the National Humanities Medal.

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