There’s quite a buzz surrounding the return of the beloved series, Fable, as it gears up for its upcoming release. Although we’re still waiting for a concrete launch date, this action RPG is definitely one of the highly anticipated titles on the horizon for 2025. However, with the recent mixed receptions of some Xbox exclusives, the initial plans for Fable’s release might see some adjustments.
Fable is aimed to debut on both PC and Xbox due to its exclusive nature, but Microsoft may be reconsidering that strategy. With their need for a successful exclusive launch, there’s chatter that Fable might not hit the mark. Insider Jez Corden mentioned that Microsoft wasn’t thrilled with the sales numbers of Hellblade 2. While Fable and Hellblade 2 differ significantly in gameplay and style, the latter’s performance could persuade Xbox to experiment by releasing Fable—and perhaps other titles—on additional platforms beyond its exclusives.
## Microsoft Might Rethink Exclusivity with Fable’s Launch
Speculation is swirling that Microsoft may open the doors for Fable, traditionally an Xbox-exclusive franchise, to hit multiple platforms. Although it’s just talk for now, there is some precedent. Recent reports have suggested Xbox might reserve exclusivity for only its biggest launches moving forward. If these speculations hold any truth, the lukewarm reception of Hellblade 2 might have nudged this decision along.
Naturally, Fable is quite a significant release for Xbox, marking the anticipated return of a major franchise. It’s a chance to capture broader markets and drive sales by stepping beyond the boundaries of exclusivity. Opening Fable to multiple platforms might feel odd to some long-time fans, but it could potentially benefit its reach vastly, setting the stage for broader accessibility and success.
## Could Fable Influence Future Game Releases?
If Fable does expand beyond its Xbox confinement, it could establish a new precedent, influencing the reception and exclusivity of future titles like The Elder Scrolls 6. Bethesda hasn’t spilled the beans entirely about which platforms will host the next Elder Scrolls installment, but given Starfield’s exclusivity, keeping The Elder Scrolls 6 in the Microsoft family might make sense.
The fact that The Elder Scrolls 6 was announced back in 2018 and has been cloaked in mystery supports the idea that Fable’s release strategy could be a strategic move—a trial, perhaps—before committing to exclusivity for even larger launches. Fable lingering without a set release date might hint at its role in setting a new inclusive direction for Xbox.
As we look to 2025’s lineup, it’ll be interesting to see Microsoft’s decisions regarding platform availability. Could even flagship series like Halo shed their exclusive status? Fable’s final platform decisions could indeed signal a shake-up in the gaming world, showing how Microsoft plans to navigate the waters of exclusivity moving forward.
