Microsoft’s game studios are really getting into a good rhythm. Xbox has been rolling out successful titles regularly. For instance, last year saw the release of Indiana Jones, which many fans believe is the best video game version of the franchise yet.
Another recent hit is Avowed, which has received great reviews from both critics and players. Plus, Microsoft has exciting titles lined up, such as DOOM: The Dark Ages, which is expected to launch later this year. Other upcoming games like Gears: E-Day, Ninja Gaiden 4, and Blade also promise a bright future for Xbox Game Pass. However, there has been a delay for one highly anticipated title.
We’ve been hearing whispers about a delay for the action-RPG “Fable,” developed by Playground Games, the studio known for Forza Horizon. Today, Microsoft confirmed this rumor.
During the official Xbox Podcast, Craig Duncan, head of Xbox Game Studios, announced that Fable’s release has been pushed from 2025 to 2026.
When asked by Xbox’s Tina Amini about the game’s current development status, Duncan shared, “We’re really excited about [Fable’s] progress. We previously announced Fable for 2025, but we will give it more time. It’s now scheduled for 2026. While this may not be the news everyone was hoping for, I want to assure you that it will be worth the wait.”
Duncan praised Playground Games, highlighting the high standards they maintain, especially after their success with Forza Horizon. He described Fable as a game with incredible gameplay, presenting Albion more vibrantly than ever. The podcast even showcased new footage of Fable, and it looks stunning, featuring some intriguing elements like a werewolf.
The darkly humorous Fable could be a landmark moment for Xbox’s first-party output. (Image credit: Xbox Game Studios)
The delay isn’t shocking. Fable is one of the largest and most ambitious projects within Xbox Game Studios. Playground Games has recruited top talent from companies like Rockstar and CD Projekt RED to craft a truly top-notch RPG experience. Microsoft has been striving for this kind of storytelling success since the Xbox 360 era. Additionally, with Grand Theft Auto 6 launching in late 2025, many studios might want to avoid that timeframe for their own releases.
It’s encouraging to see transparency from Microsoft, and many hope that Fable will mark a significant moment for Xbox. As we approach 2026, it’s intriguing to think about what the Xbox ecosystem will look like.
Recently, discussions have swirled around Xbox’s dedication to its hardware future. In the podcast, Tina Amini asked Craig Duncan directly about this, and his response was somewhat cautious.
Xbox Game Studios Update With Craig Duncan | Official Xbox Podcast – YouTube
Watch On
Tina Amini asked Craig Duncan, “What should the Xbox community take away from the decision to put games on more platforms?”
“I think it’s good for gamers and our studios,” Craig replied. “We want our games to reach as many players as possible. When I worked on Sea of Thieves, being on multiple platforms helped players connect.”
However, Duncan’s response didn’t quite address what the Xbox community should think about it. It was a curious moment where both avoided mentioning “PlayStation,” instead choosing to refer simply to “more platforms.”
Microsoft’s messaging about its “Latitude” strategy has not been very clear. There seems to be little effort to convince Xbox fans that the hardware is still a priority. Xbox hardware sales have declined for a couple of years, with low marketing activity aimed at promoting Microsoft as a hardware brand.
The Xbox community is divided on whether this approach will hurt the appeal of Xbox consoles. While there’s no strong evidence of this happening right now, it’s a concern for the future.
Despite these issues, Microsoft appears committed to its first-party Xbox hardware, with Phil Spencer mentioning the need for differentiation. With a strong financial backing, there’s a chance the next Xbox could have unique features that attract more players. If Fable performs as well as expected, it might even boost Xbox Series X and S sales in 2026.
In the podcast, Craig Duncan also shared insights about other upcoming projects like Expedition 33, DOOM: The Dark Ages, and South of Midnight. There’s a lot to look forward to for Xbox fans!
