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What’s Next for Xbox: Top Upcoming Games to Watch in 2025–2026
If you're a fan of Xbox, the next year looks incredibly exciting: from massive RPGs to survival adventures and dark fantasy, several highly anticipated titles are on the horizon. Here's a curated look at some of the most important Xbox games coming soon — what they are, why they matter, and what to expect.
1. The Outer Worlds 2 (October 29, 2025)
Arguably one of the biggest upcoming releases on Xbox, The Outer Worlds 2 is set to launch on October 29, 2025, and will be available day one on Xbox Game Pass for both console and PC. Xbox Wire+2Shacknews+2
Developed by Obsidian Entertainment, the sequel takes place in a new colony called Arcadia, where players take the role of an Earth Directorate agent navigating through warring factions and dangerous rifts. Xbox Wire The game features Obsidian’s signature Perks & Flaws system, letting you build a character with meaningful strengths and weaknesses. Xbox Wire
Notably, Microsoft and Obsidian recently revised the launch price: originally pegged at $79.99, the standard edition is now set at $69.99, following community feedback. Polygon+2GamesRadar++2 That makes it more accessible, especially for Game Pass subscribers, and signals Xbox’s flexibility on pricing major titles.
2. Grounded 2 (July 29, 2025 – Early Access)
Grounded 2, the sequel to the popular survival-action game, releases in early access on July 29, 2025, for Xbox Series X|S and PC. Wikipedia Developed by Obsidian Entertainment alongside Eidos-Montréal, this title expands on the micro-world concept where players are shrunk down to insect size.
What's new? Players will be able to tame and ride insect mounts, which dramatically boosts mobility and strategy. Wikipedia The game also brings in more building tools, expanded crafting, and a richer mystery surrounding the shrinking phenomenon. If you liked the first Grounded, this sequel promises greater depth and more dynamic multiplayer interaction.
3. Beast of Reincarnation (2026)
Coming in 2026, Beast of Reincarnation is a new action-RPG from Game Freak — making waves as one of their first major non-Pokémon titles. Wikipedia Set in a post-apocalyptic Japan, players control Emma, accompanied by her loyal dog Koo, as they traverse a corrupted world.
The game’s tone mixes emotional storytelling with challenging combat, combining Game Freak’s RPG pedigree with bold world-building. This title is confirmed for Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5. Wikipedia For Xbox fans, this could be one of the most meaningful RPGs of the next generation.
4. Fable (2026)
One of Xbox’s most beloved franchises is making a comeback: Fable, developed by Playground Games, is now delayed to 2026. Kotaku+1 This reboot promises to deliver a modern take on the classic fantasy world of Albion, blending humor, magic, and moral choice.
Built on the ForzaTech engine, the game is expected to deliver high-fidelity visuals and open-world mechanics. Wikipedia Though the wait is long, Xbox has expressed confidence in the development team, emphasizing that the extra time will help polish and perfect the experience. Kotaku
5. Blades of Fire (Released May 22, 2025)
For those who prefer darker, fantasy-driven adventures, Blades of Fire is a game to watch. Released in May 2025 for Xbox Series X|S, it was developed by MercurySteam (yes, the team behind Metroid Dread) and published by 505 Games. Wikipedia
Set in a world where steel weapons can turn to stone because of a curse, the game follows Aran de Lira, a blacksmith-warrior who forges his own weapons with a sacred hammer. Wikipedia Featuring action-adventure combat, a heavy fantasy narrative, and souls-like difficulty, it’s a strong pick for players seeking a challenging and atmospheric experience.
6. Mafia: The Old Country (August 8, 2025)
Longtime fans of crime epics will be drawn to Mafia: The Old Country, an upcoming prequel that dives deep into the underworld of Sicily in the early 1900s. Wikipedia Developed by Hangar 13 and published by 2K, this action-adventure title follows Enzo Favara, who becomes entangled with the Torrisi crime family.
With its historical setting, period storytelling, and open-world crime dynamics, the game offers a mature and cinematic experience. Launching on August 8, 2025, it's confirmed for Xbox Series X|S, alongside PC and PlayStation.
What These Games Mean for Xbox’s Future
A Balanced Lineup
Looking at these upcoming titles, Xbox is clearly focusing on a diverse portfolio. We see RPGs (The Outer Worlds 2, Beast of Reincarnation, Fable), survival action (Grounded 2), dark fantasy (Blades of Fire), and narrative crime (Mafia: The Old Country). This breadth helps Xbox appeal to a wide range of players — from those craving deep story-driven games to more casual co-op or survival experiences.
Game Pass Strength
With The Outer Worlds 2 launching day-one on Game Pass, Microsoft continues to lean into its subscription service as a core part of its strategy. That’s a huge value driver and a way to guarantee a large player base at launch. Xbox Wire
Pricing and Market Sensitivity
The rollback of The Outer Worlds 2’s price from $79.99 to $69.99 shows that Xbox is listening to its community and market conditions. Polygon As the industry grapples with game pricing, this move may also set a tone for other future releases.
Long-Term Investment in Flagship IPs
Investing in Fable and giving it time for development suggests Xbox is serious about building long-term, high-quality experiences. These aren’t quick cash grabs — they’re potential tentpole titles for years to come.
Challenges & Risks to Watch
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Delays: As seen with Fable, pushing release dates can dampen momentum and disappoint fans.
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Quality concerns: With ambitious titles, there’s a risk of bugs or unfinished content at launch, especially for early access games like Grounded 2.
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Subscription reliance: While Game Pass is a powerful tool, Microsoft’s heavy reliance on it means they must keep the service compelling — missing big titles or quality could hurt.
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Market competition: Xbox is competing with PlayStation, Nintendo, and PC across a crowded landscape. Big releases must deliver or risk being overshadowed.