Fable Delayed to 2026, Microsoft Reveals Brand New Pre-Alpha Gameplay

Microsoft Delays Fable to 2026, Unveils New Gameplay Footage

Microsoft has pushed back the release of its 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 represents a fresh start for the beloved Xbox franchise, previously helmed by the now-defunct Lionhead Studios.

Xbox Game Studios head Craig Duncan addressed the delay, assuring fans that the extra time is crucial to delivering a high-quality experience. He highlighted Playground Games' proven track record of creating critically acclaimed titles, emphasizing the team's commitment to delivering a visually stunning and engaging Fable experience. Duncan specifically praised the game's visuals, British humor, and the studio's unique interpretation of the Albion setting.

Xbox Games Series Tier List

The newly released gameplay trailer (approximately 50 seconds) showcases various aspects of the game, including combat using different weapons (one-handed sword, two-handed hammer, two-handed sword), magic attacks (fireball), exploration of a fantasy city, horseback riding through a forest, and, notably, the classic Fable tradition of kicking a chicken. A short cutscene depicts a humorous trap involving sausages used to lure a werewolf-like creature.

Initially announced in 2020 as a "new beginning," the Fable reboot has seen several reveals, including a 2023 showcase featuring Richard Ayoade and a trailer during the June 2024 Xbox Showcase event. This marks the first mainline Fable game since Fable 3 (2010) and remains one of Xbox Game Studios' most anticipated upcoming titles.