"Fable Game Delayed to 2026, Microsoft Unveils Pre-Alpha Gameplay"

Microsoft has announced a delay for the highly anticipated reboot of the Fable series, pushing its release from 2025 to 2026. Developed by the UK's Playground Games, known for their critically acclaimed Forza Horizon series, this new Fable game promises to bring a fresh take on the beloved Xbox franchise originally created by Lionhead Studios.

In a recent episode of the Xbox Podcast, Craig Duncan, who transitioned from being the head of Rare to leading Xbox Game Studios last fall, expressed his enthusiasm for the project. "Really excited about progress," Duncan stated, emphasizing the team's dedication to delivering a game that lives up to the legacy of Fable. He reassured fans that the delay is in the best interest of the game's quality, highlighting Playground's track record with Forza Horizon, which has consistently received high praise and awards.

Duncan praised the upcoming Fable for its stunning visuals and engaging gameplay, infused with the signature British humor that fans of the series adore. He described Playground's vision of Albion as the most beautifully realized version yet, promising a blend of innovation and homage to the franchise's roots.

Alongside the delay announcement, Microsoft unveiled a 50-second pre-alpha gameplay trailer. The footage showcased various elements of Fable's gameplay, including combat with different weapons like a one-handed sword, a two-handed hammer, and a two-handed sword, as well as magical attacks such as fireballs. The trailer also featured scenes of the protagonist navigating a fantasy-styled forest on horseback and engaging in light-hearted moments, such as kicking a chicken—a nod to the series' playful nature.

One intriguing scene depicted a character setting a trap with sausages to lure a werewolf-like creature, leading to a subsequent battle. This brief glimpse into the game's world and mechanics offers a promising look at what Playground Games is crafting.

First announced in 2020 as a "new beginning" for the series, Fable has been gradually revealed through various showcases, including a notable appearance by Richard Ayoade from The IT Crowd at the 2023 Xbox Game Showcase. The latest trailer, shown during the Xbox Showcase event in June 2024, further built anticipation for this reboot, which marks the first mainline Fable game since Fable 3 in 2010.

As one of Xbox Game Studios' most significant upcoming titles, the delay of Fable to 2026 underscores Microsoft's commitment to delivering a game that not only meets but exceeds fan expectations.