Latest research in Opportunistic Routing in Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs) emphasizes adaptive, context-aware communication strategies that exploit dynamic link availability and node mobility to enhance data delivery. Recent studies have proposed game theory–based and incentive-driven mechanisms to optimize forwarding decisions while maintaining fairness and energy efficiency among participating nodes. Advanced opportunistic protocols, such as VORTEX and Secure Opportunistic Network models, integrate machine learning, trust management, and security frameworks to counter malicious behavior and improve routing reliability. Hybrid designs combining opportunistic and geographic principles further reduce latency and control overhead in dense, high-mobility environments. Moreover, energy-efficient and sustainability-focused routing schemes are gaining prominence, targeting longer network lifetimes without compromising delivery performance. Overall, emerging opportunistic routing research in MANETs aims to achieve robust, intelligent, and secure data transmission through adaptive cooperation and predictive path selection in highly dynamic wireless networks.