The long wait is finally over. Tonight marks the moment when we will get another look at Playground Games’ highly anticipated Fable, thanks to the upcoming Xbox Developer Direct. Fans have been waiting for months to see what the developers have in store for this beloved fantasy series.
However, Fable is not the only title on the agenda. Xbox has also promised a look at the next game from Game Freak, the renowned co-developer of Pokémon. This new project is titled Beast of Reincarnation and is set in a post-apocalyptic Japan. In this game, players will take on the role of Emma the Sealer, tasked with confronting the
We will also receive more news regarding Forza Horizon 6. Interestingly, the release date for this game has already leaked ahead of tonight’s presentation, with indications that the game will arrive on the 19th of May. We can likely expect official confirmation of this date during the stream.
We will be watching the Xbox Developer Direct live, and you are invited to join us for all the updates and discussion. The event kicks off around 5:30 PM, and I will be at my computer ready to cover it, probably enjoying a gin and tonic and some fancy crisps while I do so.
Before the event begins, be sure to check the specific start times for tonight’s Xbox Developer Direct. You can find this information in our guide titled Xbox Developer Direct 2026 time and where to watch.
The fourth annual Xbox Developer Direct is set to begin later this evening, featuring looks at Fable, Forza, and… Beast of Reincarnation. It seems they couldn’t quite stick to the ‘F’ theme this time around! What are you most looking forward to seeing tonight?
We know for certain that we will be seeing three games, but do you think there might be a surprise fourth announcement as well?
One viewer commented that Xbox has gone from having no games in 2023, to releasing some disappointing titles in 2023 like Redfall and Starfield, to offering games that are perfectly alright in 2024 and 2025. They are hoping that Fable will be the moment Xbox releases something truly great. No pressure there!
I have poured myself that promised gin and tonic, using gin from a local coffee shop, and it is delicious! However, I am lacking in the crisp department at the moment. I may need to fix that before 6 PM.
We have about 20 minutes before things begin, so I hope you are all sitting comfortably! I wonder if Fable will also be coming to the PS5?
Another viewer mentioned that, discounting some added Xbox nostalgia, they aren’t sure the previous Fable games were actually that good. Having played them all, they aren’t sure what the fuss is about other than the notable UK voice talent. I suppose that is a bit of a negative take, but we all have our opinions.
Someone else mentioned they are hoping for Fallout 3, but expecting something small and weird from Double Fine. I would absolutely love something small and weird from Double Fine! Keeper was one of my top games from 2025.
Just this week, I held a Kinect in one hand and Fable: The Journey in the other. I did think about doing it briefly. I mean, if not now, when? I think that means one thing… do it now!
I just saw someone in the Xbox chat suggest Days Gone 2. I think they might be in the wrong place!
Hello ladies and gentlemen, welcome to your next stop, the Anticipation Station! We are just moments away from our final destination, the Xbox Developer Direct. We appreciate you choosing Eurogamer Rail on this cold January evening. Choo choo.
It is time. It’s the final countdown (da-na-na-naaaa).
Everything shown tonight will be available on Game Pass!
This is very dramatic walking music… Ah yes, that guy at the end, that would be me!
We are kicking off with Forza!
One viewer noted, “25 Years! Way to make me feel old Xbox.” I replied, “You don’t look a day over 21!”
So, other than Mario Kart which I play with my kids, the last car-based game I truly loved was The Italian Job on PS2.
It has to be said, Forza Horizon 6’s Japan setting looks beautiful! I love how reality is full of seasonality. Look at those cherry blossoms.
My husband has just bought me homemade Szechuan noodles! Noodles and games – this is a very good evening.
One viewer asked if everything is on Game Pass, but will any of it also be multi-platform day one? I wondered if there will be a PS5 announcement somewhere this evening, but I guess Xbox may want to do it like they did with Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, and wait for a bit before announcing anything.
Another viewer mentioned they can’t be the only one starting to grow tired of the standard Forza Horizon formula. They hope there’s more to the game than the usual stuff that’s been there pretty much since Forza Horizon 2. What would you want to see added?
I notice they didn’t specify which tier of Game Pass. I’m assuming Ultimate is the cost of entry. I would imagine Ultimate, yes.
I do like this more recent push for accessibility! I am always in awe of in-game fan creations. I made a square house in Minecraft once, and I was done.
Forza Horizon 6 has locked in its release date: 19th May. It will also be coming to PlayStation later “when it’s ready”.
I’m intrigued by this Game Freak game. Totally unexpected from them. This feels really different, doesn’t it! I always feel a Game Freak game is going to be… a little rough around the edges, but this looks pretty.
I’m trying to prepare dinner for the boy at the same time as watching this. Subtitles are highly likely to result in chopping a finger off… Stay safe!
This reminds me a bit of that PlayStation game with the little fuzzy creatures, but I am drawing a blank on its name.
Gotta say, I am quite looking forward to Beast of Reincarnation after this! It looks a tad dated, but I love the concept and world.
Someone suggested the game Biomutant. No, not that one (that one really disappointed me) – there is a girl with dark hair on the cover, and you play as her…
It looks like a mix between a classic RPG and a survival game. The setting in post-apocalyptic Japan gives it a unique atmosphere. The corruption mechanic seems central to the gameplay, forcing players to make tough choices.
Emma the Sealer has a heavy burden on her shoulders. Confronting the
Game Freak is known for Pokémon, so seeing them tackle a darker, more mature theme is refreshing. It shows they have the capability to branch out and try new things. This could be a breakout hit for them.
Back to Forza Horizon 6, the visuals in Japan are stunning. The cherry blossoms, the cityscapes, and the mountain roads look incredible. The attention to detail in the environment is impressive.
The release date of May 19th is coming up fast. It gives players something to look forward to in the spring. Hopefully, the game will run smoothly on all platforms.
As for Fable, the anticipation is through the roof. The previous games were beloved for their humor and British charm. Fans are hoping Playground Games captures that same magic while updating the graphics and gameplay.
The Xbox Developer Direct is a great way to showcase upcoming games without the fluff of a full E3-style presentation. It gets straight to the point, showing gameplay and giving release dates. I appreciate that efficiency.
We are getting close to the end of the stream now. It has been an exciting evening filled with new announcements. From racing in Japan to fighting corruption in a ruined world, there is a lot to look forward to.
Don’t forget that all these titles will be available on Game Pass. That is a huge value for players who want to try these games without buying them individually. It makes the Xbox ecosystem very attractive.
Thank you for joining us tonight. It has been a pleasure sharing these moments with you. We will have more detailed coverage of these games in the coming days. Until next time, happy gaming!
