Is this the most exciting Xbox showcase in years? (Yes, it is)

A new Xbox games showcase is coming on Thursday, Jan. 22, and the event will focus on three big games: the new Fable, the new Forza Horizon that’s set in Japan, and the upcoming action-adventure game from Pokémon developer Game Freak.

At January’s Xbox Developer Direct, Microsoft promises the “first extended look” at Fable, which was announced more than five years ago. It’s finally due out in 2026, and here’s what we can expect to see from Fable when it’s re-revealed later this month:

Devs from the Playground team will unveil the magic and mischief that awaits players in this fresh new beginning for the franchise, including a first look at some stunning new gameplay. Of course, the core themes of Fable will all be there – choice, consequence, drama, action, British humor and (of course) chickens, all reimagined for existing fans and new players alike.

Fable developer Playground Games will also show off its new Forza in a “deep-dive” on Forza Horizon 6. The Xbox Developer Direct showcase promises gameplay and reveals of new features, including “how Japan comes to life in this stunning new installment.” Forza Horizon 6 is expected to arrive on Windows PC and Xbox Series X in May, with a PlayStation 5 version also expected in 2026.

Finally, Microsoft promises a look at Beast of Reincarnation, the action-RPG from Game Freak set in post-apocalyptic Japan. That includes an enticing look at the game’s hero Emma’s “innovative plant manipulation actions and gameplay with her canine companion, Koo.” Beast of Reincarnation was first announced under the working title Project Bloom in 2023.

Of course, this is an Xbox Developer Direct, and these showcases are known for a “one more thing” reveal. Will that mean the oft-rumored announcement of new Fallout remasters from Bethesda Game Studios? Or a surprise drop from one of Xbox Game Studios’ internal teams?

We’ll find out on Thursday, Jan. 22, at 10 a.m. PST/1 p.m. EST/6 p.m. GMT, when the first Xbox Developer Direct of 2026 streams live.