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 fans a first glimpse of new gameplay footage to soften the blow. Developed by Playground Games (creators of the Forza Horizon series), this Fable represents a fresh start for the beloved Xbox franchise, previously helmed 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: "It’s definitely worth the wait," he stated, emphasizing his confidence in Playground Games' ability to deliver a top-tier experience. He highlighted Playground's track record with the critically acclaimed Forza Horizon series, boasting its high Metacritic scores and awards, as a testament to their capabilities. Duncan promised a visually stunning and engaging Fable, incorporating British humor and a breathtakingly realized Albion, inspired by previous iterations but distinctly Playground's own vision.

The delay announcement coincided with the release of a 50-second pre-alpha gameplay video. This brief but impactful preview showcased Fable's combat system, featuring a variety of weapons (one-handed sword, two-handed hammer, two-handed sword) and magic (fireball). The video also included city exploration, horseback riding through a fantastical forest, and the classic Fable tradition of kicking a chicken. One intriguing scene depicted the protagonist setting a trap baited with sausages to lure a werewolf-like creature into combat. The footage effectively demonstrated the visual fidelity and gameplay direction Playground Games is pursuing.

Initially announced in 2020 as a "new beginning," the Fable reboot has been gradually unveiled to fans. A 2023 Xbox Game Showcase offered a first look, and a subsequent trailer was shown at the June 2024 Xbox Showcase event. This marks the first mainline Fable game since Fable 3 in 2010, and remains one of Xbox Game Studios' most anticipated upcoming releases.