Microsoft has announced that the highly anticipated reboot of the Fable series, originally slated for a 2025 release, will now be delayed until 2026. This news comes alongside an exciting first look at brand new gameplay footage, offering fans a glimpse into what the future holds for this beloved franchise.
Developed by the UK-based studio Playground, known for their acclaimed Forza Horizon series, this new Fable is a fresh start for the franchise that was once helmed by the now-defunct Lionhead Studios. In the latest episode of the Xbox Podcast, Craig Duncan, the former head of Rare who now leads Xbox Game Studios, shared his enthusiasm for the project.
"We are really excited about the progress and where Playground is taking Fable," Duncan stated. "We initially set a 2025 release date, but we've decided to give the game more time to ensure it meets our high standards. It will now launch in 2026."
While acknowledging that the delay might be disappointing to fans, Duncan emphasized the importance of patience, assuring listeners that "it's definitely worth the wait." He expressed unwavering confidence in Playground's ability to deliver, citing their successful track record with the Forza Horizon series, which has consistently achieved high acclaim, including scores around 92 on Metacritic.
Duncan highlighted the unique elements Playground is bringing to Fable, such as stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and the signature British humor that the series is known for. He described the game's setting, Albion, as "the most beautifully realized version you've ever seen," promising a fresh yet respectful take on the franchise's legacy.
To accompany the delay announcement, Microsoft unveiled 50 seconds of pre-alpha gameplay, showcasing various aspects of Fable. The footage included combat scenes with different weapons like a one-handed sword, a two-handed hammer, and a two-handed sword, as well as a fireball magic attack. Other scenes depicted the main character navigating city streets and riding a horse through a fantasy forest. The gameplay also featured the iconic chicken-kicking moment, adding a touch of humor.
A cutscene showed a character setting a trap with sausages to lure a werewolf-like creature, leading to a subsequent battle. This brief but revealing look at the game's mechanics and visual style underscores the high expectations set by Duncan's comments.
First announced in 2020 as a "new beginning" for the series, Fable's development has been closely followed by fans. The 2023 Xbox Game Showcase provided further insights, featuring a reveal by The IT Crowd's Richard Ayoade. Last year, Microsoft showcased the game again during its Xbox Showcase event in June 2024.
This upcoming title marks the first mainline Fable game since Fable 3 in 2010 and is one of the most eagerly awaited releases from Xbox Game Studios. With the additional development time, fans can look forward to a polished and ambitious addition to the Fable legacy in 2026.
