Being an avid Xbox supporter in recent times has proven to be quite challenging. Microsoft’s proprietary titles have lagged behind the impressive developments from their competitors, Sony and Nintendo. Furthermore, the recent wave of layoffs has severely impacted key studios, including Turn 10, Rare, and ZeniMax.
Adding to the disheartening news, the much-anticipated reboot of the Perfect Dark series, helmed by new studio The Initiative, has been halted following a troubled development journey. The Initiative has now been disbanded, leaving fans without any gaming releases from the studio.
As reports of even more unsettling news emerge regarding Microsoft and the Xbox brand, we extend a hopeful thought for the games we are eager to see released, wishing that they won’t meet the same fate as others.
To clarify: the games listed here are not those we predict will be cancelled, but rather the ones we fervently hope remain in development.
9 Gears of War: E-Day
Back Where It All Began
With the recent announcement of Gears of War: E-Day showcased at the 2024 Xbox event, enthusiasm among fans surged. The Gears franchise, once a cornerstone for Xbox, particularly during the Xbox 360 era, appears to be making a return with this prequel that dives into the beloved storyline. However, the cancellation of Perfect Dark proves that even promising projects can falter.
Fortunately, E-Day benefits from the expertise of its development team, The Coalition and People Can Fly, both of whom are well-versed in creating exceptional titles within the Gears universe. Time will be crucial for this project, and given the renewed focus on the Gears franchise, we remain optimistic that E-Day will complete its journey successfully.
8 State of Decay 3
State of MIA
Launched in 2013, the State of Decay franchise found an audience on the Xbox 360, despite receiving mixed reviews. The sequel, released in 2018, developed a dedicated fan base, leading to Microsoft’s acquisition of developer Undead Labs and the announcement of State of Decay 3. Although a teaser at the 2024 showcase was encouraging, it raises concerns, particularly following the unfortunate cancellation of Perfect Dark.
It’s important to note that State of Decay 2 has received 38 updates as recently as last year, indicating Undead Labs’ commitment. We anticipate that they will invest the necessary time into State of Decay 3, as the regular updates showcase their dedication to the franchise and its loyal community.
7 Clockwork Revolution
BioShock Steampunk Edition
The excitement around inXile Entertainment’s new project, Clockwork Revolution, gained momentum following the success of Wasteland 3 and peaked after its reveal in 2023. Comparisons to the BioShock series are inevitable, particularly as the franchise awaits its next installment from 2K. With that said, the unique world-building and engaging character design lead many to believe this game could fill the void.
Although the teaser suggested the game’s release could be far off, new footage showcased at the latest Xbox Games Showcase provided reassurance. It’s essential for Microsoft to give inXile the time and resources to craft a standout title—especially in an age where delays have become increasingly common.
6 Marvel’s Blade
Hopefully It’s Not Stuck Like The Movie
Given Arkane Studios’ past success with titles like Dishonored, expectations are high for their upcoming game based on the Blade franchise. The superhero genre has been thriving, yet it seems the Blade project has faced numerous hurdles since Mahershala Ali’s involvement was confirmed six years ago.
While the game only commenced full production in 2024, the long silence surrounding it raises concerns. Arkane’s inconsistent performance in recent titles like Redfall and Deathloop doesn’t do much to reassure fans, particularly in light of Microsoft’s recent studio closures. Nonetheless, there remains hope that this anticipated title will come to fruition.
5 Fable
Once Upon A Time…
This year’s Xbox showcase was also missing the much-anticipated Fable reboot, which has been in development for some time and was notably delayed to 2026. While Playground Games has conveyed a need for additional time, fans are becoming increasingly skeptical. Concerned, gamers cannot help but recall the fate of Everwild, another title that saw a promising beginning before being cancelled.
Despite assurance from Xbox leaders about the project’s quality, the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Warner Bros.’s commitment to its IPs leaves many apprehensive. With hopes pinned on 2026, we are left hoping the reboot of Fable does not follow suit.
4 Contraband
The Newest Game From Avalanche Studios
The teaser for Contraband was revealed when E3 was still relevant, debuting in 2021. However, as the industry evolves, development cycles have become lengthy and complex. It’s curious that amid recent layoffs, Avalanche Studios remains unscathed since we’ve heard little about this intriguing project—a co-op experience set amid a fictional 1970s landscape.
Additionally, the studio has recently announced they are hiring, indicating ongoing commitment to the title. However, potential clarity about the game’s development would undoubtedly help ease fans’ expectations and anxieties.
3 Project: Mara
Let Ninja Theory Cook
The image above is a still from Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II, as details on Project: Mara are scarce. Despite the previous game receiving acclaim, it didn’t achieve blockbuster status, and there are concerns about the studio’s future under Microsoft’s leadership.
Ninja Theory has managed to stay afloat amid closures and layoffs, thanks in part to the innovative technologies pursued in their projects. Their commitment to addressing serious themes, particularly in relation to mental health as demonstrated in their games, may grant them some security. Project: Mara promises a profound exploration of mental terror, meticulously based on firsthand accounts and research, and we hope it stays on track for release.
2 The Next Halo Game
Phil Spencer Probably Teased It
The Halo franchise, once the centerpiece of Xbox’s success, has undergone a tumultuous transition since Bungie’s departure. Although 343 Industries endeavored to carry the torch, titles like Halo 4 and Halo Infinite did not meet the high expectations set by their predecessors, leading to mixed reviews and disappointment among fans.
Hints from Phil Spencer during the latest showcase imply positive developments for the franchise; however, with layoffs affecting Halo Studios, concerns mount over Master Chief’s future. The balance between ambitious projects and tumultuous studio management complicates the outlook for the next installment in this iconic series.
1 The Next Toys for Bob Game
Spyro? Crash? Banjo?!
As an independent developer partnering with Microsoft, Toys for Bob’s forthcoming title has piqued interest. However, the nature of the project remains shrouded in mystery. Some speculate it could be the long-awaited Spyro 4, while others hope for a revival of Banjo-Kazooie, which holds nostalgic value for many.
The strong track record of Toys for Bob suggests that whatever they produce will likely be met with enthusiasm. Nonetheless, given the shifting landscape of the gaming industry—where even significant titles fall prey to cancellations—fans remain cautiously optimistic about their next project.
Moreover, with incidents of funding loss impacting teams like John Romero’s, many are quick to contemplate the ramifications of Microsoft’s recent decisions. While nothing has been confirmed regarding Toys for Bob, the current climate is indicative of the intricate world developers navigate today.
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