Microsoft Delays Fable Release to 2026: A Deeper Dive into the Anticipated Fantasy RPG and What It Means for Gamers

In a recent update that has sparked both disappointment and excitement among gaming enthusiasts, Microsoft has announced a delay in the release of its highly anticipated Fable reboot. Originally slated for a 2025 launch, the game is now expected to hit shelves in 2026. This decision, while unexpected, underscores Microsoft’s commitment to delivering a polished and immersive experience that lives up to the legacy of the beloved franchise.

During an appearance on the official Xbox podcast, Craig Duncan, head of Xbox Game Studios, shared the news, emphasizing that the delay is a strategic move to ensure the game meets the high expectations of fans. “We previously announced the date for Fable as 2025, but we’ve decided to give the development team more time to perfect the game. It’s now scheduled to ship in 2026,” Duncan explained. “While I understand this may not be the news fans were hoping for, I can assure you that the wait will be worth it. The Playground Games team is crafting something truly special.”

Why the Delay? A Commitment to Quality

The decision to push back the release date reflects Microsoft’s dedication to quality over speed. In an era where gamers increasingly demand rich, immersive experiences, taking the time to refine gameplay, storytelling, and visuals is crucial. Duncan’s confidence in Playground Games, the studio behind the project, is unwavering. Known for their work on the critically acclaimed Forza Horizon series, Playground Games brings a unique blend of technical expertise and creative vision to the Fable franchise.

“What they’re bringing to Fable is nothing short of extraordinary,” Duncan added. “Think of the stunning visuals you’d expect from Playground Games, combined with engaging gameplay, classic British humor, and their unique interpretation of Albion. This will be the most beautifully realized version of the Fable world you’ve ever seen.”

What We Know About Fable So Far

Fans got their first glimpse of the game during last year’s Xbox summer showcase, where early gameplay footage highlighted the game’s focus on character-driven storytelling and a richly detailed fantasy world. The reboot introduces players to a new protagonist, Humphry, a retired hero who is reluctantly drawn back into action when a mysterious figure from his past threatens the very existence of Albion.

The footage showcased a vibrant, whimsical world filled with lush landscapes, quirky characters, and the signature humor that has defined the Fable series. Microsoft also released additional gameplay snippets recently, further teasing the game’s innovative mechanics and narrative depth.

Playground Games: A Perfect Fit for Fable

Playground Games’ involvement in the Fable reboot has been a topic of much excitement. The studio’s track record with the Forza Horizon series demonstrates their ability to create visually stunning, open-world experiences that resonate with players. Their expertise in crafting dynamic, living worlds makes them an ideal choice to breathe new life into the Fable universe.

“Playground Games is not just delivering a game; they’re delivering an experience,” Duncan noted. “Their attention to detail, combined with their passion for storytelling, ensures that Fable will be a game that both longtime fans and newcomers will cherish.”

What’s Next for Xbox in 2024 and Beyond?

While the delay of Fable may be disappointing to some, Microsoft has a robust lineup of games to keep players engaged in the meantime. Titles like South of Midnight, Doom: The Dark Ages by id Software, The Outer Worlds 2, and the potential release of Gears of War: E-Day promise to deliver a diverse range of experiences across genres.

This strategic approach to game development highlights Microsoft’s commitment to its players. By prioritizing quality and innovation, the company aims to solidify its position as a leader in the gaming industry.

Why This Delay Is Good News for Gamers

While delays are often met with frustration, they are frequently a sign that a developer is committed to delivering a product that exceeds expectations. In the case of Fable, the extra time allows Playground Games to refine every aspect of the game, from its visuals and gameplay mechanics to its narrative and world-building.

For fans of the series, this means a more immersive and memorable experience when the game finally launches. As Duncan aptly put it, “It’s definitely worth the wait.”

Final Thoughts: A Bright Future for Fable and Xbox

The delay of Fable to 2026 is a testament to Microsoft’s dedication to quality and its respect for the legacy of the franchise. By giving Playground Games the time they need to perfect the game, Microsoft is ensuring that Fable will be a standout title in its lineup.

For gamers, this means more time to anticipate what promises to be one of the most ambitious RPGs of the decade. As we wait for more updates, one thing is clear: the future of Fable—and Xbox—is brighter than ever.

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Entertainment

Burnout in PlayStation Stars

by George Mensah 2025-05-22

Sony has announced it will wind down the current version of PlayStation Stars, its loyalty and rewards program launched in 2022. The initiative allowed PlayStation users to earn digital collectibles and points for completing in-game challenges, but it never gained the traction Sony hoped for.

Here’s what we know—and what might come next.

Why Is PlayStation Stars Ending?

In an official PlayStation Blog post, Grace Chen (VP of Network Advertising, Loyalty, and Licensed Merchandise) explained:

“Since launching the program, we’ve learned a lot from evaluating the types of activities our players respond best to… We have decided to refocus our efforts and will be winding down the current version of PlayStation Stars.”

Key Reasons Behind the Shutdown

🔹 Low Engagement – Despite offering digital collectibles, the program didn’t resonate strongly with players.
🔹 Shifting Industry Trends – Sony may be pivoting toward new reward structures (possibly integrating with PlayStation Plus).
🔹 No Blockchain/NFT Integration – Unlike competitors (Ubisoft Quartz, Square Enix’s NFT push), Sony avoided blockchain tech, which may have limited its appeal.

What Happens Now? Key Dates & Changes

📅 July 23, 2024 (10:59 AM ET)

Last day to earn rewards (points, collectibles, level-ups).
No new campaigns will be added after this date.

📅 November 2, 2026

Full shutdown of the current PlayStation Stars program.

What About Existing Points & Collectibles?

✔ Points can still be redeemed for PSN wallet funds or games (until November 2026).
✔ Digital collectibles remain viewable in the PlayStation App (but may not transfer to a future program).

What Were PlayStation Stars’ Digital Collectibles?

Unlike NFTs, these were purely cosmetic and non-tradable, including:
🎮 Iconic PlayStation characters (Kratos, Ratchet & Clank, Astro Bot)
🕹️ Nostalgic PlayStation hardware (PS1, PS2, PSP miniatures)
🏆 Limited-edition rewards tied to game milestones

Despite Sony’s initial hype, the collectibles lacked real utility, which may have contributed to the program’s decline.

What’s Next? Will PlayStation Stars Return?

Sony’s wording—“current version”—suggests a revamped loyalty program could arrive later. Possible directions:

🚀 Integration with PlayStation Plus – Exclusive perks for subscribers.
💎 NFT Experimentation? – Sony has filed blockchain patents, but Chen previously denied NFT plans.
🎯 More Gamified Rewards – Better incentives for trophy hunters & frequent players.

Final Thoughts: A Lesson in Gamified Loyalty Programs

PlayStation Stars had potential but ultimately failed to offer enough value to keep players engaged. Its shutdown reflects a broader trend—gamers want meaningful rewards, not just digital trinkets.

If Sony relaunches the program, expect deeper integration with PlayStation’s ecosystem and more tangible benefits.

Entertainment

Fortnite will return to iOS in the US, according to Epic

by George Mensah 2025-05-01

In a landmark decision, Epic Games has announced that Fortnite will return to the iOS App Store in the U.S. next week—ending a nearly five-year absence sparked by Apple’s infamous 2020 ban. This comes after a federal court ruled that Apple cannot charge commissions on purchases made outside its App Store, dealing a major blow to the tech giant’s lucrative 30% “Apple Tax.”

Epic CEO Tim Sweeney declared the move on X (formerly Twitter), calling it a “major victory for developers and consumers” while extending an unexpected peace offer to Apple.

Why Was Fortnite Banned from iOS?

August 2020: Apple removed Fortnite after Epic introduced a direct payment system, bypassing Apple’s 30% in-app purchase (IAP) fee.
Legal Battle Ensued: Epic sued Apple, accusing it of anti-competitive practices—a case that reached the U.S. Supreme Court.
2021 Ruling: A judge mostly sided with Apple but ordered it to allow external payment links—a ruling Apple resisted.
April 2025 Decision: A new court order blocks Apple from taking commissions on outside purchases, forcing a major policy shift.

Epic’s Bold “Peace Proposal” to Apple

Sweeney’s post included a surprising olive branch:

“If Apple extends the court’s friction-free, Apple-tax-free framework worldwide, we’ll return Fortnite to the App Store worldwide and drop current and future litigation on the topic.”

This suggests Epic is willing to end its legal war—but only if Apple abandons its global App Store commission model.

What This Means for iPhone Users & Developers

Fortnite Returns to U.S. iPhones – Gamers can soon download it directly from the App Store (no sideloading required).
Alternative Payment Options – Developers may soon bypass Apple’s fees, leading to lower prices for consumers.
Potential Ripple Effect – If Apple complies globally, other apps (like Spotify, Netflix) could follow Epic’s lead.
EU vs. U.S. Differences – In Europe, Fortnite is already back via Epic’s own store (thanks to the Digital Markets Act), but U.S. users still rely on Apple’s ecosystem.

Will Apple Accept Epic’s Offer?

Apple’s Stance So Far: The company has fought fiercely to protect its App Store revenue (estimated at $24 billion annually).
Regulatory Pressure: With the EU’s DMA and now U.S. courts challenging its model, Apple may have no choice but to adapt.
Possible Compromise: Apple could reduce fees (as it did for small developers) or allow more payment freedom—but a full surrender seems unlikely.

Expert Insight: A Turning Point for App Stores?

As a tech policy analyst with a decade of experience covering Apple-Epic disputes, I believe this ruling could reshape mobile app economics:

✅ More Developer Revenue – If fees drop, indie devs keep more profits.
✅ Consumer Benefits – Cheaper subscriptions, in-game purchases.
✅ Increased Competition – Alternative app stores could rise.

But challenges remain:
❌ Apple’s Compliance – Will it find loopholes?
❌ Security Concerns – Will sideloading increase scams?
❌ Ongoing Legal Fights – Other lawsuits (like Spotify vs. Apple) loom.

What’s Next?

Next Week: Fortnite relaunches on iOS in the U.S.
2025 & Beyond: If Apple resists, expect more court battles—if it complies, the App Store monopoly may crumble.

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