The new Fable launches in 2026 for Xbox, PS5, and PC — featuring an open world, a full reboot, and more than 1,000 NPCs. Here’s everything you need to know about the fantasy RPG.
Fable returns in 2026 with a full-scale reboot. Developed by Playground Games — best known for the Forza Horizon series — the game promises a fairy-tale open-world adventure packed with British humor, a dynamic reputation system, and more than 1,000 living NPCs. We’ve rounded up all confirmed details on the new Fable, from release and platforms to story and gameplay.
When will Fable be released?
Fable is set to launch in Fall 2026. A specific release date has not yet been announced. According to Xbox, the game will launch simultaneously on all supported platforms.
Which platforms will Fable be released on?
Fable is a true multiplatform release, launching on Xbox Series X|S, PC (Windows, Xbox App, Steam), PlayStation 5, and via Xbox Cloud Gaming. Thanks to Xbox Play Anywhere, a single purchase lets you play on both Xbox and PC — including cross-save support.
Will Fable be available on Game Pass?
Yes. Fable will launch day one on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate — across console, PC, and cloud. There has been no announcement regarding availability on other subscription services such as PlayStation Plus.
Is Fable a reboot or a remake?
The new Fable is a complete reboot of the franchise and is not directly connected to the original trilogy. According to game director Ralph Fulton, the team wanted full creative freedom to build a modern version of Albion — without continuing past stories or characters.
How does the story begin?
The story opens in classic Fable fashion. You begin as a child whose heroic powers start to emerge. After a time jump, you return as an adult to your hometown of Briar Hill — only to find everything has changed. A mysterious stranger has turned the village, along with your grandmother, into stone. Your only lead: a clue pointing to the legendary Heroes’ Guild in Bowerstone.
From there, your journey truly begins — and where you go is entirely up to you. According to the developers, there is no time pressure: the story will wait, whether you rush ahead or spend time exploring other parts of Albion first.
What is Fable’s gameplay like?
Fable is an open-world action RPG built around three core pillars: choices, combat, and social interactions.
Combat: Style-Weaving System
The combat system is built around seamless transitions between melee, ranged attacks, and magic — inspired by the classic “Strength, Skill, Will” philosophy. You can slash an enemy with a sword, immediately hurl a fireball, and follow up with a bow shot, all without breaking the flow. Fights are often tactical, featuring enemy types such as Hobbes, Trolls, Balverines, and the newly introduced Cockatrice.
Morality: Reputation Instead of Good vs. Evil
Fable ditches a traditional morality meter. Instead, it relies on observed actions. If NPCs catch you kicking chickens, for example, you might earn the reputation of “Chicken Chaser.” These reputations are location-based and influence how NPCs address you, whether you can marry, the prices in shops, and access to certain quests. The same action can be judged differently depending on who witnesses it. Reputations can also be changed — through deeds or by bribing the town crier.
NPCs: The “Living Population”
One of the biggest innovations: over 1,000 individually simulated NPCs, each with names, jobs, homes, daily routines, and opinions. Every character plays a role in the world and forms their own view of you. Cities are built to function realistically — including beds for every resident. NPCs remember you, react to your behavior, and adapt dynamically.
Life Simulation & Humor
Beyond the main quest, you can buy houses, take on jobs such as blacksmith or landlord, pursue romantic relationships, get married, and have children. Village life is infused with classic British humor. Fable stays true to its roots: irony, slapstick, and absurd situations are part of everyday life. Even combat leans into comedy — like Hobbes accidentally beating each other up.
Is there character customization?
Yes. A full character editor has been confirmed, allowing you to extensively customize your hero or heroine. Decisions you make throughout the game also affect your appearance — and how NPCs react to you.
Which well-known voice actors are involved?
Confirmed cast members include Richard Ayoade (The IT Crowd), who voices the character “Dave,” and Matt King (Peep Show) as “Humphry,” the narrator featured in the trailer. Xbox has also confirmed that more high-profile voices will be revealed in the coming months.
Is there already a trailer for Fable?
Yes. The official trailer was released on January 22, 2025, during the Xbox Developer Direct. It offers a first look at the open world, combat against creatures like the Cockatrice, the character editor, and the series’ signature British humor in a mockumentary style.
Which editions and preorder bonuses are available?
At this point, there is no official information on editions (Standard, Deluxe, Collector’s, etc.). Pricing has also not yet been announced. More details are expected once preorders go live.
