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, but offered a glimpse of fresh gameplay footage to soften the blow. Developed by Playground Games (creators of the Forza Horizon series), this Fable iteration represents a significant relaunch of the beloved Xbox franchise, originally conceived by the now-defunct Lionhead Studios.

Xbox's Craig Duncan, head of Xbox Game Studios, addressed the delay on the Xbox Podcast, assuring fans that the extra time is crucial for delivering a superior product. He emphasized his complete faith in Playground Games' capabilities, citing their proven track record with the critically acclaimed Forza Horizon series. Duncan highlighted the game's stunning visuals, British humor, and a reimagined Albion, promising the most visually impressive version of Albion yet seen.

The delay announcement coincided with the release of a 50-second pre-alpha gameplay video. This brief preview showcases Fable's combat system, featuring various weapons (one-handed sword, two-handed hammer, two-handed sword) and magic (fireball). The video also includes city exploration, horseback riding through a fantastical forest, and the classic Fable tradition of kicking a chicken. The footage provides a strong indication of Playground Games' artistic vision and the high level of visual fidelity. A notable scene depicts the player character setting a trap baited with sausages to lure and subsequently battle a werewolf-like creature.

Initially announced in 2020 as a "new beginning," the Fable reboot has seen several updates. A 2023 Xbox Game Showcase offered an initial preview, followed by another trailer during the June 2024 Xbox Showcase event. This marks the first mainline Fable title since Fable 3 (2010) and remains one of Xbox Game Studios' most anticipated upcoming releases.