Overview
- Studios chief Craig Duncan told GamesRadar+ that Rockstar will “do what they’re going to do” and that Xbox will set dates based on what is best for its own games.
- Duncan said the 2026 rollout will be staggered to ensure each release has “oxygen,” citing 2025’s tightly packed October slate as a lesson.
- The announced lineup includes Forza Horizon 6 on May 19 with early access beginning May 15, Fable in the fall, and new entries planned for Gears of War: E-Day and Halo: Campaign Evolved in 2026.
- Microsoft is leaning on cross-platform launches and day-one Game Pass availability to reach more players rather than relying on a single holiday window.
- Across the industry, publishers are shifting dates to steer clear of GTA 6’s November launch, which lands four days after Xbox’s 25th anniversary.