Xbox Developer Direct 2026: What to Expect from Fable, Forza Horizon 6, and Game Freak’s New IP

Xbox is gearing up to host its Developer Direct 2026 today, Thursday, January 22nd, offering gamers a comprehensive look at a selection of its most anticipated upcoming titles for the Xbox Series X/S. This fourth installment in the Developer Direct series is poised to deliver significant updates on two major franchises and introduce a compelling new intellectual property, directly from the developers themselves. The showcase, which kicks off at 6 PM GMT / 10 AM PST, is a crucial event for understanding Xbox’s lineup for the coming year, particularly with in-depth presentations on Playground Games’ long-awaited Fable and Forza Horizon 6, alongside Game Freak’s intriguing new RPG, Beast of Reincarnation.

Global Access: Where and When to Tune In

The Xbox Developer Direct 2026 is scheduled for Thursday, January 22nd, at 6 PM GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) or 10 AM PST (Pacific Standard Time). For audiences across different regions, this translates to 7 PM CET (Central European Time) in Europe and 1 PM EST (Eastern Standard Time) on the East Coast of the US. Viewers can easily convert these times to their local zones to ensure they don’t miss the live broadcast.

To watch the showcase, fans have multiple options. The event will be streamed live on the official Xbox YouTube and Twitch channels, ensuring broad accessibility. For those who prefer to connect via social media, the official Xbox Facebook account will also carry the stream. Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, dedicated streams with American Sign Language (ASL) support will be available on a specific Xbox Twitch channel, while British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation can be found on the Xbox On YouTube channel. Beyond these primary platforms, the Developer Direct will be simultaneously broadcast on every regional Xbox channel and on Steam. For audiences in China, the showcase will air later in the day on Bilibili. According to GameSpot and iPhone in Canada, the YouTube stream is expected to offer the highest quality viewing experience, broadcasting in stunning 4K resolution at 60 frames per second.

The Highly Anticipated Lineup: Fable, Forza, and a New Beast

Unlike many other showcases that keep their entire lineup under wraps, Xbox has already confirmed three of the major titles that will be spotlighted during the Developer Direct 2026. While the order of appearance remains unknown, these confirmed games are set to provide substantial updates, with developers offering direct insights into their creations. This ‘human touch,’ as noted by iPhone in Canada, is a hallmark of the Developer Direct format, allowing creators to speak firsthand about their projects, often revealing new trailers and gameplay segments.

Fable: A Return to Albion

Leading the charge is the much-anticipated return of Fable, developed by Playground Games. Fans have been eagerly awaiting an in-depth look at this reboot of a beloved fantasy RPG franchise, which has been a core pillar for the Xbox brand since its inception in 2004. The series, initially developed by Lionhead Studios, faced uncertainty after the studio’s closure in 2016. Playground Games stepped in to revive the IP, with a formal reveal in 2020. This Developer Direct promises to be the first proper, extensive look at the new Fable, delving into its gameplay, story mechanics, and the overall scope of this entry. Xbox Wire has previously reported that the Playground team is committed to maintaining the franchise’s core principles of choice and consequence, a fundamental element that defined the original games. Gamers are hoping this showcase will finally answer lingering questions and potentially offer a release window for the title.

Forza Horizon 6: Exploring Japan’s Landscapes

Also from Playground Games, Forza Horizon 6 will take the stage, providing new insights into the next installment of the critically acclaimed open-world racing series. This title was previously revealed during the Tokyo Game Show, largely due to its setting: Japan. The developers are positioning Forza Horizon 6 as a ‘love letter’ to the country’s rich culture and diverse geographical locations. The showcase segment will focus on new gameplay features, the meticulous recreation of iconic Japanese locales such as the majestic Mount Fuji, the expansive region of Hokkaido, and the bustling metropolis of Tokyo. Fans can expect a deep dive into how the game captures the essence of Japan while delivering the exhilarating arcade racing experience that the Forza Horizon series is known for.

Beast of Reincarnation: Game Freak’s New Venture

Breaking away from its renowned Pokémon franchise, Game Freak will introduce Beast of Reincarnation, a new combat-focused RPG. Revealed during the 2025 Xbox Games Showcase, this title transports players to a post-apocalyptic Japan. The narrative centers around Emma, a character accompanied by her faithful canine companion, Koo, as they navigate this desolate world. The Developer Direct will provide a closer look at the game’s combat system, which iPhone in Canada reports has been compared to the likes of Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice and NieR: Automata, suggesting a challenging and engaging experience. Emma’s unique plant manipulation powers are also expected to be a key gameplay element showcased. Beast of Reincarnation is slated for a 2026 release, with specific dates yet to be announced.

Beyond the Known: Potential Surprises and Xbox’s Anniversary Year

While the three primary titles have been confirmed, Developer Direct events have historically been known to include ‘shadow drops’ – surprise game releases that become available immediately after the showcase, much like the unexpected launch of Hi-Fi Rush from Tango Gameworks in a previous installment. Though no such surprises have been hinted at for this year, the possibility always adds an extra layer of excitement for viewers.

Furthermore, 2026 marks a significant milestone for Xbox, celebrating its 25th anniversary. As part of these celebrations, later in the year, Halo: Campaign Evolved is scheduled for release across multiple platforms, including PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. While this specific release is not part of the Developer Direct’s focus, it provides important context for Xbox’s broader strategy and the celebratory nature of the year.

This year’s Xbox Developer Direct, with its clear focus on highly anticipated returns like Fable and Forza Horizon 6, alongside a compelling new IP from a renowned developer like Game Freak, underscores Xbox’s commitment to delivering a diverse and robust game lineup. By offering direct developer insights, the showcase not only builds excitement but also provides a transparent look at the creative process, positioning these titles as central to Xbox’s strategy for a strong 2026.