Microsoft is scheduled to hold its Xbox Developer_Direct ’26 event on January 22, 2026. The broadcast takes place at 10:00 am PT or 1:00 pm ET, and can be watched via YouTube and Twitch. The Developer_Direct format usually focuses on explanations from the development team, so the content tends to be more detailed than a short trailer. For this edition, Microsoft has prepared in-depth discussions for three titles: Fable, Forza Horizon 6, and Beast of Reincarnation.
Xbox Developer_Direct ’26 is positioned as a presentation featuring an “in-depth look” at some of the games in the pipeline. This means that viewers will likely see more context about design, development direction, and longer snippets of gameplay. The main information that has been confirmed is the date and time, plus the official streaming platform.
Fable: back to Albion with a new feel
Playground Games' Fable will have a big part to play as it's billed as the first in-depth look at the project. The development team promises a first look at the gameplay, as well as taking players back to the world of Albion. Elements of series identity are also emphasized, such as choice and consequence, drama, action, British humor, and iconic details like chickens. The focus seems to be on keeping the Fable signature, while providing a fresher entry point for new players.
Forza Horizon 6: open-world racing in Japan
Forza Horizon 6 will also be dissected through a deep-dive session from the Playground Games team. The open-world racing game is set in Japan, with an emphasis on diverse and contrasting landscapes. Microsoft said there will be a first look at gameplay, including the reveal of new features and how the Japanese locations are brought to life in this installment. Details such as environment processing, route variations, and possible changes to the event system are usually topics that often appear in the Developer_Direct format.
Beast of Reincarnation: action RPG with one person and one dog
Beast of Reincarnation comes from Game Freak and is described as a more intense action RPG, with a one-person, one-dog concept. The protagonist named Emma will be shown using plant manipulation abilities in gameplay, accompanied by a dog named Koo. The setting is in post-apocalyptic Japan, and the session is also said to discuss the development secrets behind its creation. The presence of this title adds a variety of genres to the event, alongside two major franchises from Playground.
This event is an important moment to see how far the three games have progressed, especially in terms of gameplay and the design direction that each team has brought.
