"Fable Release Pushed to 2026; Microsoft Unveils Pre-Alpha Gameplay"

Microsoft has pushed back the release of the much-anticipated Fable game from 2025 to 2026, while also unveiling fresh gameplay footage to keep fans engaged.

Fable marks the revival of the iconic Xbox franchise originally crafted by the now-closed Lionhead Studios. The development is being led by UK's Playground Games, renowned for their acclaimed Forza Horizon series.

During the latest Xbox Podcast episode, Craig Duncan, who transitioned from Rare's studio head to lead Xbox Game Studios last fall, shared his enthusiasm about the project. "We are really excited about the progress and where Playground are taking this," Duncan stated. "We had previously set Fable's release for 2025, but we've decided to give it more time, moving it to 2026."

Acknowledging that delays are never ideal, Duncan reassured fans, "It’s definitely worth the wait. I have complete confidence in the Playground team. Considering their track record with Forza Horizon, which has consistently scored around 92 on Metacritic and won numerous awards, you can expect nothing short of excellence."

He elaborated on what fans can anticipate: "Playground is bringing stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and that signature British humor to Fable. Their vision of Albion is the most beautifully realized version you’ve ever seen, inspired by the franchise’s rich history but with a fresh take."

Alongside the delay announcement, Microsoft treated fans to a 50-second glimpse of pre-alpha gameplay. The footage showcased various elements, including combat with weapons like a one-handed sword, a two-handed hammer, and a two-handed sword, as well as a fireball magic attack. Scenes also featured city exploration, a character on horseback navigating a fantasy forest, and the classic Fable touch of kicking a chicken. One intriguing segment showed a character setting a trap with sausages to lure a werewolf-like creature, leading to a subsequent battle.

First announced in 2020 as a "new beginning" for the series, Fable has since been showcased at various events, including the 2023 Xbox Game Showcase with a reveal by Richard Ayoade of The IT Crowd fame, and again during the Xbox Showcase in June 2024.

This reboot is the first major Fable title since Fable 3 in 2010 and stands as one of the most eagerly awaited releases from Xbox Game Studios.