Microsoft Delays Fable to 2026, Unveils New Gameplay Footage
Microsoft has pushed back the release of the highly anticipated Fable reboot from 2025 to 2026. This news, revealed on the Xbox Podcast, was accompanied by a first look at pre-alpha gameplay footage.
Developed by Playground Games (creators of the Forza Horizon series), this Fable reboot marks a fresh start for the beloved Xbox franchise, previously helmed by the now-defunct Lionhead Studios. Xbox Game Studios head Craig Duncan assured fans that the delay is necessary to ensure the game lives up to its potential, stating unequivocally that it will be "definitely worth the wait." He highlighted Playground's track record of critically acclaimed, visually stunning games, emphasizing that Fable will be the "most beautifully realized version of Albion you’ve ever seen," incorporating both classic Fable elements and the studio's unique vision.
The newly released gameplay trailer (approximately 50 seconds) showcases various aspects of the game, including:
- Combat using a variety of weapons (one-handed sword, two-handed hammer, two-handed sword) and magic (fireball).
- Exploration of a vibrant fantasy world, including cityscapes and forest environments.
- Character interaction, notably the iconic "kicking a chicken" moment.
- A humorous cutscene involving a werewolf-like creature and a sausage trap.
Initially announced in 2020 as a "new beginning," Fable has been gradually unveiled through subsequent showcases, including a 2023 reveal featuring Richard Ayoade and a trailer during the June 2024 Xbox Showcase. This reboot represents the first mainline Fable game since 2010's Fable 3 and is considered one of Xbox Game Studios' most significant upcoming releases. While the delay is disappointing for some, the promise of a visually stunning and gameplay-rich experience suggests that the wait may be worthwhile.
