Fable Release Pushed to 2026, New Pre-Alpha Gameplay Unveiled by Microsoft

Microsoft has recently announced that the much-anticipated reboot of the Fable series, originally set for a 2025 release, will now be launched in 2026. This news was shared alongside a first glimpse of brand new gameplay footage during the latest episode of the Xbox Podcast, where Craig Duncan, the head of Xbox Game Studios, expressed his confidence in the project.

Fable, a beloved franchise first developed by the now-defunct Lionhead Studios, is being revitalized by UK-based Playground Games, renowned for their critically acclaimed Forza Horizon series. Duncan emphasized the studio's impressive track record, citing the high Metacritic scores and awards that the Forza Horizon games have garnered, and assured fans that this dedication to quality would be reflected in the new Fable game.

The delay, though not ideal for eager fans, is aimed at ensuring the game meets high standards. Duncan highlighted the visual and gameplay enhancements that Playground is bringing to the table, including a beautifully realized version of Albion, infused with British humor and the studio's unique touch.

Alongside the delay announcement, Microsoft released 50 seconds of pre-alpha gameplay footage. This brief showcase included scenes of Fable's combat mechanics, featuring weapons such as a one-handed sword, a two-handed hammer, and a two-handed sword, as well as a fireball magic attack. The footage also depicted the main character navigating a fantasy-styled forest on horseback and engaging in humorous interactions, like kicking a chicken. Additionally, a cutscene showed a trap being set with sausages to lure a werewolf-like creature, which the protagonist then battles.

Playground Games' revival of the Fable series was first announced in 2020, marking a "new beginning" for the franchise. Subsequent reveals, including a trailer featuring Richard Ayoade at the 2023 Xbox Game Showcase and another at the 2024 Xbox Showcase, have kept fans engaged and excited about what's to come.

As the first mainline Fable game since 2010's Fable 3, this reboot is poised to be one of Xbox Game Studios' most significant upcoming releases. Duncan's reassurances and the promising gameplay footage suggest that the wait for Fable's 2026 release will indeed be worthwhile.