As Xbox gears up to celebrate its 25th anniversary, Microsoft is giving inside looks at three new games in development. It was an interesting year for Xbox games as three of its titles at one point topped Sony’s charts with Indiana Jones and The Great Circle, Forza Horizon 5, and The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered all taking top spots on Microsoft’s competitor’s lists. It now seems that Microsoft is hoping to possibly repeat that achievement with three more games, set for release in 2026 on Xbox and PC.
“2026 is going to be an incredible year for Xbox players – you might even call it a… fabled year. To celebrate, we’re kicking it off with the fourth installment of our Developer_Direct broadcast on January 22, bringing you news, new gameplay, and insights directly from the incredible teams working on titles coming this year.”
-Microsoft
Playground Games will get a double feature in the upcoming developer direct event on January 22 with Fable and Forza Horizon 6. Fans of the Fable franchise have been awaiting a major update since it was first revealed in 2020 and then given a new trailer in 2024. Not only will there be extended gameplay revealed, but it also sounds like the next game will get a 2026 release.
“Playground Games welcomes players back to the fairytale land of Albion, with the first in-depth look at Fable – one of 2026’s most anticipated titles. Devs from the Playground team will unveil the magic and mischief that awaits players in this fresh new beginning for the franchise, including a first look at some stunning new gameplay.”
– Microsoft
The next Forza Horizon entry is said to take place in Japan giviing players the chance to race in open-world rural and metro locales. Art director Don Arceta has previously shared how players will be able to experience the natural beauty of Japan in the franchise’s “most detailed and layered environments to date.”
The upcoming deep dive will show gameplay, new features, and the game’s promised imagery.
“The Forza team from Playground Games will share a deep-dive on the much-anticipated Forza Horizon 6 as the open world racer takes players to the beautiful and contrasting landscapes of Japan.”
– MIcrosoft
Last but not least is a game from Game Freak, best known for its Pokémon games. This game is also set in Japan, but in the distant future, where a Samurai named Emma faces off against mechs and Yokai to “save a post-apocalyptic Japan from monstrous beasts,” with her faithful canine companion Koo.
“Join us as we delve into Game Freak’s intense one-person, one-dog action RPG. For the first time, Game Freak will reveal details of our protagonist Emma’s innovative plant manipulation actions and gameplay with her canine companion, Koo. In Beast of Reincarnation, a profound and dangerous world unfolds in post-apocalyptic Japan.”
-Microsoft