Xbox is set to spotlight several of its most anticipated upcoming games later today during the January 2026 edition of its Developer Direct showcase. The presentation will feature extended looks at major first-party projects, including new details on Fable and Forza Horizon 6, as well as fresh gameplay from an upcoming action RPG developed by Game Freak.
Earlier this month, Xbox confirmed that its January Developer Direct—now an annual fixture on the company’s calendar—would return for 2026. The event is expected to offer the first in-depth look at Fable and Forza Horizon 6, both in development at Playground Games. Fans will also see new gameplay from Beast of Reincarnation, an action RPG created by Game Freak, best known for its work on the Pokémon franchise.
While Xbox has not officially confirmed a release date for Forza Horizon 6, speculation has been growing after a possible date surfaced through Forza Horizon 5 last week. That has fueled expectations that more concrete launch information could be revealed during the presentation.
Xbox’s January showcases have also earned a reputation for surprises. In 2023, the event unexpectedly introduced and released Hi-Fi Rush, while the 2025 edition revealed Ninja Gaiden 4 and included a same-day release of Ninja Gaiden 2 Black. Whether Xbox will repeat that pattern this year remains to be seen.
How to Watch the Xbox Developer Direct
The Xbox Developer Direct will stream live on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at the following times:
- 10:00 a.m. PT
- 1:00 p.m. ET
- 6:00 p.m. GMT
The presentation will be broadcast simultaneously across YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook. Xbox has also confirmed that alternate streams featuring audio descriptions and American Sign Language will be available on YouTube, allowing viewers to choose the format and platform that best suits them.
With major first-party titles and the potential for surprise announcements, the January 2026 Developer Direct is shaping up to be one of Xbox’s most closely watched showcases of the year.
