Playground Games, the renowned British developer celebrated for its acclaimed Forza Horizon series, has unveiled the establishment of a third studio to bolster the highly anticipated reboot of the Fable franchise. This strategic expansion highlights the studio’s commitment to delivering a major revival of the beloved fantasy RPG series, which has remained dormant since its last instalment on the Xbox 360.
The Fable franchise, which earned acclaim for its imaginative storytelling and vibrant world, initially made waves in the mid-2000s with its unique take on open-world fantasy. After a prolonged period of silence following its initial CGI trailer in 2020, the project has recently garnered renewed interest. Recent updates, including fresh in-engine footage and new narrative details, were showcased at the Xbox Games Showcase 2024. The latest trailer introduces Humphry, a disheartened retired hero reminiscing about his former glories, and offers a closer look at the expansive world of Albion. This preview reveals interactions with NPCs, exploration of lush forests, and encounters with both bandits and formidable monsters.
Playground Games has updated its LinkedIn profile to reflect the formation of this new studio, which is set to play a crucial role in the final stages of Fable’s development. The precise nature of this studio remains unspecified, but it is presumed to be an internal division rather than a separate entity. The existing two studios will continue their work on the Fable project, while the original Playground Games team remains dedicated to its highly successful Forza Horizon series.
The creation of this third studio has sparked speculation about the status of the Fable reboot. While the development team’s expansion suggests a significant push towards the game’s completion, some industry observers question whether this move indicates potential challenges or delays. It is worth noting that Fable already benefits from support provided by Eidos Montreal, a partnership that strengthens the game’s development efforts.
With a target release date set for 2025, excitement is building among fans of both the RPG genre and Playground Games’ impressive portfolio. The game is expected to launch in the latter part of the year, with rumours suggesting a window between October and December. This timeline aligns with the studio’s broader strategic focus, particularly as attention shifts to the potential release of Forza Horizon 6.
Forza Horizon 5, the latest entry in the acclaimed racing series, was met with substantial success nearly three years ago. As Fable progresses with the aid of multiple studios, it is likely that Playground Games is also preparing for the next chapter in the Forza Horizon saga. The dual focus on both fantasy RPGs and high-octane racing games underscores the studio’s commitment to catering to a diverse gaming audience.
In conclusion, Playground Games’ decision to establish a third studio underscores its dedication to delivering a polished and immersive experience with the Fable reboot. As the project moves towards its 2025 release, both industry analysts and fans will be closely monitoring further developments. Meanwhile, anticipation for Forza Horizon 6 continues to build, with the next instalment in the racing series potentially on the horizon. The coming months are expected to provide greater insight into the trajectories of both Fable and Forza Horizon, as Playground Games balances its ambitious projects and meets the high expectations of its global fanbase.
