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Xbox's 25th Year: Big Games & Future Vision
5 Feb
Summary
- Xbox plans major releases for Forza, Halo, Fable, and Gears of War in 2026.
- Microsoft is advancing AI features and an improved PC UI for Xbox.
- Next-gen Xbox hardware is anticipated for a 2027 release, with new controllers this year.
Microsoft is poised for a significant year in 2026, celebrating Xbox's 25th anniversary with a renewed focus on its flagship franchises. The company plans to launch major entries in the Forza, Halo, Fable, and Gears of War series. Forza Horizon 6 is targeting a May 19th release, with Halo: Campaign Evolved aiming for summer.
Fable and Gears of War: E-Day are scheduled for the latter half of 2026. Other anticipated releases include Double Fine's Kiln in April and new Starfield content from Bethesda. Blizzard will also mark 35 years with showcases for its major titles.
The Xbox platform is evolving with advancements in hardware and software. The Xbox Ally handheld is paving the way for third-party devices, featuring AI-powered features like Automatic Super Resolution and AI-driven highlight reels. An improved Xbox PC UI is also in development.
While a next-generation Xbox console is not expected in 2026, AMD has indicated a 2027 launch. New controllers with Wi-Fi connectivity for reduced cloud gaming latency are planned for 2026, alongside potential special edition consoles. Microsoft is also exploring free ad-supported Xbox Cloud Gaming.
Microsoft is considering expanding its Game Pass subscription offerings, potentially bundling third-party services or merging PC and Ultimate tiers. The company is working to clarify its subscription options, especially as PC Game Pass has seen significant growth. This year is crucial for Xbox as it sets the stage for its future direction.
