Fable is set to be back with its latest iteration in the form of a reboot. After its initial reveal at the 2020 Xbox Games Showcase, there were three years of silence that left many questions unanswered. Would Fable 4 still be in development? What would the game be called? Luckily, recent updates from Playground Games, the new caretakers of Fable, have provided some reassurance. Here is everything we know so far about Fable 4.
Fable 4 release date and development progress
As of now, Fable 4 does not have a specific release date. We are still waiting for official announcements regarding its launch window. Since no gameplay has been shown yet, it is safe to assume that the release is still a while away. However, Phil Spencer, head of Xbox, mentioned that Fable 4 would be released before The Elder Scrolls 6, which currently has an estimated 2028 launch window.Â
A fresh look and a British vibe
During the 2023 Xbox Games Showcase, a new trailer for Fable 4 was revealed, giving us a glimpse of the game’s current state. Notably, the narration was provided by Richard Ayoade, adding a unique British touch to the game.
The trailer showcased a world where heroes and magical beings roam, while an aggrieved farmer voiced by Ayoade expressed his exhaustion with their antics. This portrayal perfectly captures the blend of fantasy and quirky British humor that the Fable series is known for.
Fable 4 gameplay details still under wraps
Although there have been official descriptions referring to Fable 4 as an ‘open world action RPG’, we still don’t have concrete information about its gameplay mechanics. The 2023 trailer showcased a hero wielding a sword and casting magic spells, hinting at the inclusion of these elements. However, further details are yet to be revealed.
Playground Games takes the helm
Playground Games, renowned for their work on the Forza Horizon series, has been entrusted with the development of Fable 4. Rumors about Playground Games working on Fable 4 had circulated since 2018, and they have since assembled a team of around 200 people dedicated to creating an open-world action RPG. With Playground Games’ expertise in crafting immersive and visually stunning experiences, Fable 4 is in good hands.
It comes as no surprise that Fable 4 is being developed using the Forza Tech engine. Microsoft’s job posting for a software engineer at Turn10 Studios confirmed the integration of ForzaTech into Fable’s development. This engine, known for its capabilities in powering the Forza Motorsport and Forza Horizon series, is being enhanced to support Fable’s open world and action RPG elements.
New narrative lead and scriptwriters
Anna Megill, the lead writer for Fable 4, has been promoted to Fable’s narrative lead. Megill brings extensive experience in video game narrative design, having worked on acclaimed franchises such as Guild Wars and Dishonored, and serving as the narrative lead for Control. Her role goes beyond writing, encompassing the overall design and shaping of the game’s story.
Rumors and speculations
Several rumors have circulated about Fable 4, adding to the anticipation surrounding the game. Reports suggest that scriptwriters from Batman: Arkham Knight have joined Playground Games for the project. Additionally, leaked information hinted at various features including first- and third-person perspectives, the absence of guns, the ability to ignore the main quest, town-building mechanics, multiplayer elements, and even interplanetary travel. While these rumors are yet to be confirmed, they have sparked intrigue and speculation within the Fable community.
Mixed feelings from the original Fable team
With the original Fable team no longer involved, some members expressed mixed feelings about a new studio taking on the sequel. Co-creator Simon Carter acknowledged the talent of the new team at Playground Games. But he also highlighted the unique challenge of capturing the essence of Fable without the original developers. Nonetheless, he expressed excitement about the revival of the franchise and his optimism for the new team’s ability to deliver a fantastic experience.
