Microsoft’s Xbox plans for are taking shape, with a mix of anticipated releases and continued development on several key titles. While the company navigates a period of hardware decline, its software roadmap appears robust, aiming to leverage both existing franchises and new intellectual property.
Upcoming Game Releases
Playground Games’ Forza Horizon 6 is slated for release in . Halo fans can look forward to Halo: Campaign Evolved, currently targeting a launch. The Gears of War franchise will see a new installment with Gears of War: E-Day, planned for the second half of . Perhaps most anticipated is Fable, the reboot from Playground Games, scheduled for a release. Microsoft is reportedly strategically positioning the launches of Gears of War: E-Day and Fable to avoid direct competition with the November release of Grand Theft Auto 6.
Continued Development and Remasters
The long-awaited Fallout 3 remaster remains in active development, nearly three years after its existence was revealed in documents related to Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard. Bethesda is prioritizing polish, aiming for a launch quality comparable to last year’s successful The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered. Bethesda’s Todd Howard expressed satisfaction with the reception of Oblivion Remastered, indicating a similar standard for future remasters.
Fans hoping for a Fallout: New Vegas remaster may be left waiting, as no update on that project was provided in the recent reports. However, the continued development of Fallout 3 offers some consolation.
Starfield and New IP
Bethesda’s space RPG, Starfield, is expected to receive new content in . Discussions surrounding a potential PlayStation 5 version of the game are reportedly underway. Double Fine’s recently unveiled Kiln is scheduled for release in , adding a new IP to the Xbox lineup.
Hardware Updates
Microsoft is planning to release a new Xbox controller in . A key feature of this new controller will be integrated Wi-Fi connectivity, designed to reduce latency for Xbox Cloud Gaming. This suggests Microsoft is continuing to invest in cloud gaming as a core component of its Xbox ecosystem.
Next-Generation Xbox Console
Despite the hardware updates, there are currently no indications that Microsoft will release a next-generation Xbox console in . This aligns with recent statements from AMD, a key supplier for Xbox hardware. However, Microsoft is expected to share more details regarding its long-term console plans later in the year. The company appears to be taking a measured approach, carefully considering its hardware strategy in light of evolving market conditions.
The Xbox Developer Direct Showcase held last month provided a deeper dive into these upcoming titles, showcasing gameplay and new features. The event underscored Microsoft’s commitment to delivering a strong software lineup for Xbox and PC gamers.
