The air crackled with anticipation as I watched my little brother clutch his controller, eyes glued to the screen. “Just one more quest,” he pleaded, already lost in Albion’s embrace. It struck me then: This isn’t just a game; it’s a portal to another self, a chance to rewrite your story. The Fable reboot promises that power anew, but when can you seize it?
Initially announced back in 2020, the Fable reboot is primed to launch. Developed by Playground Games (the minds behind Forza Horizon), this RPG/life-sim aims to return you to the familiar cottagecore comforts of Albion, where a personalized fairytale awaits. And yes, the chickens are back, which explains why fans are watching its development so carefully.
If, like my brother, you’re eager to return to Albion, here’s what we currently know about Fable, including its projected release, compatible platforms, gameplay features, and more.
Fable: When Can You Return to Albion?
I remember the endless speculation leading up to the release of Fable 2, the forums buzzing with rumors and hopes. Playground hasn’t set a concrete launch date for Fable, but signs point to an Autumn 2026 release. This places it in Q3 2026, potentially going head-to-head with heavy hitters like Phantom Blade Zero and, of course, Grand Theft Auto VI.
The RPG will be available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC at launch. It will support the Xbox Anywhere program and will be part of the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate catalog.
What Will Fable Cost?
I’ve learned that patience is a virtue when it comes to game releases; waiting often yields the best deals. Specific editions and pricing for Fable remain unconfirmed, but expect a tiered structure: Standard, Deluxe, and Premium, each with escalating bonus content. The base edition will likely mirror standard pricing for Xbox releases, around $69.99 (about €65).
Will Fable Be on Game Pass?
Yes! Fable will be available on Xbox Game Pass at launch.
What’s the Story in the New Fable?
There’s a certain magic in revisiting familiar places, seeing how they’ve changed, and discovering new secrets. In classic Fable form, you’ll start as a child in the quiet village of Briar Hill. Your hero powers emerge early, before a mysterious figure turns the village—including your grandmother—to stone. This sets the stage, transforming you into a mature adult driven by vengeance.
Your quest will lead you to places like Bowerstone and the Hero’s Guild. Along the way, expect side quests filled with eccentric characters; choices will shape the world around you.
The Fable reboot isn’t tied to the original trilogy’s timeline. Instead, it offers a fresh start, making it accessible to new players while honoring the spirit of the Xbox 360-era RPGs. Fable serves as a blank canvas—not unlike a stage play set on a familiar stage.
What Can You Do in Fable?
I’ve always appreciated games that let you forge your own path, blending adventure with everyday life. At its heart, the Fable reboot is an RPG/life-sim hybrid. Complete quests, explore, fight, and manage your reputation with NPCs. Here’s a taste of what to expect:
Open World
The open-world map is a pastoral landscape of rolling hills, magical forests, sleepy hamlets, and oversized vegetable patches. This is still Albion, a very British medieval fantasy world. From the beginning, you can explore freely; Fable won’t lock areas behind level gates or quest requirements.
Bowerstone, the capital, is a melting pot for all walks of life. Venture north, and you’ll find craggy coastlines, spooky marshes, and the shady city of Bloodstone, where geopolitical tensions simmer. You’ll even influence which faction comes out on top.
NPCs and Reputation System
It wouldn’t be Fable without a deep Reputation and Character Management system. Like the original trilogy, the reboot features 100+ unique NPCs, each with routines, preferences, and more. Interact with them, romance them, start a family, or break their hearts.
Your actions shape their view of you. Actions witnessed by NPCs will affect your reputation. Kick enough chickens, and you’ll earn a reputation as a ‘Chicken Chaser.’
People react based on that reputation. If they admire your chicken-kicking skills, you might have a shot at romance. If they think you’re cruel, no chance. The same applies to other activities, displayed via an in-game ‘Word Cloud.’ Fortunately, you can clean up your image, perhaps by paying a Town Crier to sing your praises.
Can You Be Evil in Fable?
Yes, you can absolutely be evil in Fable. Choices have consequences, and you can lean into villainy. The world will react accordingly. How much of a rogue will you be?
Activities
While there’s a main story, Fable is about writing your own storybook fantasy. There are plenty of activities, including blacksmithing, buying properties, renting those properties, quests, tough decisions, and more. You can abandon the main quest and start a family to live an idyllic life.
Character Creation
The upcoming title includes a character creator, complete with heads, skin tones, hair, tattoos, outfits, and scars to choose from. Throughout the game, you’ll customize your character by learning new skills and abilities.
How Does Combat Work in Fable?
Fable features third-person action combat where you use weapons and spells to defeat enemies. Expect to juggle swords, magic, and ranged weapons. Enemies have a posture bar; deplete it to trigger a stylish finishing move.
Melee weapons seem to have attack chains and can be used to block. Magic includes fire, lightning, and even the ability to turn enemies into chickens. You’ll face human enemies and creatures like Hobbes, Skeletons, Trolls, and a new monster called the Cockatrice.
That’s the state of play for Fable. This article will be updated with new information as it’s released. What kind of hero—or villain—will you be?