Developer_Direct Jan 22: Fable, Forza 6, Beast Reveals

Key Takeaways:

• Xbox’s Developer_Direct returns January 22 with new gameplay and studio-led segments for Fable, Forza Horizon 6, and Beast of Reincarnation.
• Playground Games will show an extended look at Fable and the first gameplay for Forza Horizon 6, set in Japan.
• Game Freak will present an in-depth look at Beast of Reincarnation, introducing protagonist Emma and her canine companion Koo.
• Tune in at 10am PT / 1pm ET / 6pm UK to watch live updates from the developers.

Developer_Direct returns with studio-led showcases

Xbox is kicking off 2026 with the fourth Developer_Direct broadcast on January 22, timed to its 25th anniversary year. The show is presented by the development teams themselves and promises deeper looks at flagship titles coming this year.

Why this broadcast matters

Developer_Direct focuses on new gameplay and behind-the-scenes insight rather than broad PR. Expect production commentary from Playground Games and Game Freak, showing not just footage but design thinking and feature details.

What to expect from the games

Fable — Playground Games

Playground Games will deliver the first extended look at the rebooted Fable, returning players to Albion with a modern take on the franchise’s signature choice-and-consequence systems. The segment will highlight core themes—choice, consequence, humor and action—alongside refreshed visual and gameplay systems aimed at both long-time fans and newcomers.

Forza Horizon 6 — Playground Games

Forza Horizon 6 gets its first gameplay reveal, with Playground taking players to a reimagined Japan. Expect an in-depth look at open-world driving, new features, and how the team built contrasting Japanese landscapes to create a fresh Horizon playground.

Beast of Reincarnation — Game Freak

Game Freak will present a detailed look at Beast of Reincarnation, an action RPG starring Emma and her dog Koo. The studio plans to demo Emma’s plant-manipulation abilities and cooperative combat mechanics within a haunting post‑apocalyptic Japan.

How to watch

Developer_Direct airs Thursday, January 22 at 10am Pacific / 1pm Eastern / 6pm UK. Xbox recommends following its official channels for live streaming and post-show recaps.

What to follow after the show

After the broadcast, expect deeper articles, developer interviews, and gameplay breakdowns across Xbox Wire and official Xbox social channels. These segments will likely clarify release windows, platform details, and Game Pass plans as developers share more specifics.