For the fourth year in a row now, Xbox has held its winter Developer Direct showcase, giving us a more detailed look at four games coming soon. These showcases have become a pleasant surprise over the years, with the first ever direct in 2023 shadow dropping the critically acclaimed Hi-Fi Rush. This year is no different for pleasant surprises, as well as good looks at anticipated releases.
Forza Returns to Form
We first got a new look at the upcoming Forza Horizon 6, with a determined release date for May 19, 2026. This time set in Japan, the open world racing game returns to an emphasis on progression, with the player character starting out as a nobody who must rise through the ranks of the Horizon racing festival. This system is one that has been de-emphasized over the past few entries, so it's nice to see a return to this, now with a few new twists. Players will be able to customize and expand a residence/compound, presumably where they will store various cars and show off possible winnings. Additionally, there is a section of the map cordoned off for only those who have acquired the highest tier of wristbands. With all of these changes combined with the scenery and car culture of Japan, Forza Horizon 6 is shaping up to be one of the best in the series.
Monsters Out of the Pocket
We received a fresh look at Beast of Reincarnation, a new action role-playing game from Game Freak (yes, the Pokémon people). The player will be accompanied by a dog named Koo in a post-apocalyptic Japan in a game that blends real-time combat with mechanics inspired by turn-based games. Visually, this game looks impressive, with lush foliage overtaking a broken and deteriorated industrial world. However, I’m still yet to be sold on the gameplay and story, as I haven’t really felt a certain pull from this one. That said, Beast of Reincarnation is still a solid game to watch out for, releasing this summer.
A Carefully Sculpted Surprise
As is tradition for these showcases, there was one “secret” revealed, that being developer Double Fine’s next game: Kiln. Kiln is a multiplayer party brawler themed around pottery, where players will create a pot, vase, or something of that nature and use it as a character to then fight against other players. It’s a cute little project—and while this may not be something I personally plan on playing—I’m glad there are still smaller projects like this being made, especially under such a massive publishing umbrella. May thy clay chip and shatter.
‘Fable’ is Finally More Than Just a Fable
Finally, we got a long anticipated look at Fable, a sequel/reboot to the Fable franchise of old. As a fantasy action RPG, there were plenty of expected things like the combat, monsters, and in-depth character creation. However, what’s more interesting is the series’ signature focus: morality. In Fable, the player will be able to make various decisions throughout their playthrough that will reflect how each NPC will perceive them. Additionally, each NPC will be individually named, and will have a unique reputation with you. You can buy up properties and become a high fantasy slum lord, courting disdain amongst the less fortunate, or become a hero of the commonfolk. Additionally, these NPCs can also be romanced. Overall, if all of these features come to fruition by Fall, Fable could be one of the most interesting games to release this year.
The Round Up
This year’s Developer Direct gave us a look at some pretty cool games coming this year before the meatier showcases bound for the summer. Kiln and Beast of Reincarnation are some interesting wild cards, while Forza Horizon 6 and Fable are a promising look at returning classics.
Sources: Xbox, Steam, Xbox, Xbox, Game Freak, Pokémon, Double Fine, Xbox, Xbox
Images: Xbox, Xbox, Xbox, Xbox, Xbox
Contact Ian Case with comments at ian.case@bsu.edu or on Instagram @iancasian
