Microsoft is set to captivate RPG enthusiasts with its impressive lineup of upcoming games. The company recently showcased a tantalizing glimpse of its first-party games during the Xbox Games Showcase, signaling a promising future for gamers. While there may have been delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Microsoft's dedication to acquiring and developing studios has resulted in a breadth of titles covering various genres.
A New Era for RPGs
The upcoming lineup of first-party titles from Microsoft caters to RPG fans, promising an unparalleled gaming experience on PC and Xbox. Over the next four to five years, renowned studios will immerse players in captivating RPGs set in diverse worlds. Let's take a closer look at some of the highly anticipated games in Microsoft's roster.
Starfield (September 6th, 2023)
Leading the pack is Starfield, the long-awaited sci-fi game from Bethesda. During a dedicated 45-minute-long showcase, Bethesda Game Studios impressed the gaming world with a comprehensive look at the game. Starfield offers a rich RPG experience, combining elements such as starship building, combat, crafting, and more. The improved gunplay and combat animations showcased the game's evolution, thanks to Microsoft's additional development time. With overwhelming positive feedback from critics and fans, Starfield has generated significant interest, even among PlayStation gamers considering alternative ways to play the game. The game's popularity is evident from its strong following on Steam, surpassing that of Elden Ring at a similar stage before its launch. If Bethesda can deliver a polished game with minimal bugs, Starfield could be the megahit Microsoft needs to kickstart a Golden Age of RPGs on PC and Xbox.
Avowed (2024)
Obsidian's Avowed is the second RPG on Microsoft's first-party schedule, targeting a 2024 release. Although the gameplay trailer didn't shine as brightly as other featured games, the development team aims to address lighting inconsistencies. Avowed will leverage Unreal Engine 5's capabilities, potentially resolving the issue. While some fans were disappointed that the game shifted away from its original pitch of a Skyrim-like experience set in Pillars of Eternity's Eora, the decision allowed Obsidian to focus on enhancing first-person combat. Game Director Carrie Patel promises an improved combat system with distinct weapon styles, including magic and melee or pistols. With Obsidian's renowned strength in storytelling, Microsoft has another promising RPG in the pipeline.
Clockwork Revolution (First Half 2025?)
Surprising fans, inXile revealed Clockwork Revolution, a first-person steampunk RPG, during the Xbox Games Showcase. Departing from their previous isometric games, inXile showcased impressive visuals and fast-paced action combat. The trailer introduced Lady Ironwood, the manipulative villain who exploited time for personal gain, setting the stage for an intriguing narrative. Players will shape the outcome by making choices while time-traveling, with consequences that reverberate upon their return to the present. With the lead developers of Arcanum: Of Steamworks and Magick Obscura at the helm, Clockwork Revolution has immense potential. Although the release date remains uncertain, a five-year development cycle suggests a possible launch in the first half of 2025. If inXile fulfills the promise showcased in the trailer, Microsoft's acquisition will undoubtedly be regarded as a wise investment.
Fable (Late 2025?)
Playground Games, renowned for the Forza Horizon series, breathes new life into Microsoft's first RPG franchise, Fable. After three years since the initial announcement trailer, Fable resurfaced with an enchanting trailer inspired by the Jack and the Beanstalk fairytale. The in-game footage showcased stunning visuals, surprising many skeptics who initially believed it to be pre-rendered. Playground Games' Lighting Artist Lukas Kelz confirmed the real-time footage captured on an Xbox Series X, raising expectations for the game's release. While details about Fable are scarce, the trailer suggests that players' choices will have a lasting impact on the world of Albion. With the right execution, Fable has the potential to become another captivating RPG experience.
The Outer Worlds 2 (2026?)
Obsidian's other major project, The Outer Worlds 2, diverts attention from Avowed. Following the success of the first game, the sequel, now published by Microsoft, holds the promise of an enhanced gaming experience with a larger budget. While specifics about The Outer Worlds 2 are limited, the game will introduce a new crew in a fresh solar system. Obsidian aims to address combat and progression issues encountered in the original game, ensuring an improved sequel that can establish another successful RPG franchise under Microsoft's umbrella. As development progresses, a 2026 release seems plausible, given the considerable amount of time already invested.
The Elder Scrolls VI (Late 2027?)
The much-anticipated sequel to Skyrim, The Elder Scrolls VI, has been in pre-production since its announcement alongside Starfield in 2018. Although details are scarce, rumors suggest the game will be set in Hammerfell, the Redguards' homeland. Following the completion of Starfield, full production is expected to commence, marking a significant milestone in the game's development. Speculatively, a late 2027 release could align with Bethesda's typical four-year development cycle. As one of Microsoft's most significant first-party titles, The Elder Scrolls VI has the potential to entice PlayStation users to explore the PC and Xbox ecosystem.
In conclusion, Microsoft's upcoming lineup of RPGs is nothing short of extraordinary. From the highly anticipated Starfield to the revival of beloved franchises like Fable, RPG fans are in for a treat. With acclaimed studios like Bethesda, Obsidian, inXile, and Playground Games at the helm, the future of RPG gaming on PC and Xbox looks incredibly promising. As each game takes shape, Microsoft's quest for RPG dominance takes a step closer to reality.