Xbox Developer_Direct 2026 Highlights: Fable, Forza Horizon 6, and More Revealed
Microsoft kicked off 2026 in style with the Xbox Developer_Direct event, celebrating 25 years of Xbox. The showcase featured AAA titles with full gameplay reveals, precise release dates, and a major surprise: flagship games like Fable and Forza Horizon 6 will also launch on PlayStation 5 later this year, emphasizing Microsoft’s strategy to expand its player base across platforms.
Forza Horizon 6
Long-awaited by fans, Forza Horizon 6 brings the festival of music and speed to Japan. Scheduled for release on May 19, 2026, the game features the largest and most detailed map in the series, spanning Shibuya in Tokyo to legendary mountain routes. Players can collect over 550 vehicles from day one, including the 2025 GR GT Prototype and the latest Toyota Land Cruiser.
Fable
Developed by Playground Games, Fable presents an action RPG experience in a reimagined Albion, retaining its signature British dark humor. The game launches in Fall 2026 (September–November). Highlights include a Morality System with nuanced choices that visibly impact the world. PS5 players will join Xbox users in exploring Albion simultaneously.
Beast of Reincarnation
From Game Freak, known for Pokémon, comes Beast of Reincarnation, an Action RPG set in a post-apocalyptic 4026. Players control Emma and her loyal dog Koo, combating the Blight. Releasing in Summer 2026 (June–August), the game combines real-time combat with time-slowed strategy, offering a fresh challenge for fans of the developer.
Kiln
Double Fine introduces Kiln, a quirky multiplayer pottery-party brawler. Players sculpt clay into armor and weapons on a spinning wheel, which then affects combat performance in 4v4 arena battles. Scheduled for Spring 2026 (March–May), a Beta test is planned soon.
Xbox Game Pass and Play Anywhere
All showcased games will be available on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate from day one, supporting Xbox Play Anywhere, allowing a single purchase to play on console, PC, and mobile devices. Microsoft teased that this is just the beginning of the 25th-anniversary celebrations, with upcoming releases like Gears of War: E-Day and other secret projects expected mid-year, marking 2026 as a golden year for gamers.’
Source: Xbox
