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 new gameplay to appease fans. Developed by Playground Games (creators of the Forza Horizon series), this reboot marks a fresh start for the beloved Xbox franchise, originally conceived by the now-defunct Lionhead Studios.

Xbox Game Studios head Craig Duncan, in a recent Xbox Podcast appearance, reassured fans that the delay is justified, stating the game is "definitely worth the wait." He highlighted Playground Games' proven track record with the critically acclaimed Forza Horizon series, emphasizing the team's dedication to delivering a visually stunning and engaging Fable experience. Duncan described the game's world, Albion, as "the most beautifully realized version you’ve ever seen," promising a blend of impressive visuals, captivating gameplay, and signature British humor.

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The announcement included a 50-second pre-alpha gameplay trailer showcasing various aspects of the game. The footage depicts combat using different weapons (one-handed sword, two-handed hammer, two-handed sword), a fireball magic attack, city exploration, horseback riding through a fantastical forest, and the classic Fable tradition – kicking a chicken. A brief cutscene even shows the protagonist setting a trap using sausages to lure a werewolf-like creature.

Initially announced in 2020 as a "new beginning," the Fable reboot has been gradually unveiled through subsequent showcases. Richard Ayoade (of The IT Crowd fame) previously featured in a reveal, and another trailer debuted at the June 2024 Xbox Showcase. This marks the first mainline Fable game since 2010's Fable 3, and remains one of Xbox Game Studios' most anticipated upcoming releases.