We previously reported about how some game studios were pushing back game launches over fears of being overshadowed by Grand Theft Auto VI in November 2026, with game developers and publishers explaining that gamers have limited time and money to invest into their hobby all at once, and launching too near such a large-scale launch could negatively impact a game's sales. It appears as though not even Xbox Gaming's highly anticipated Fable is immune to those same fears, as a recent announcement by Xbox on X has confirmed that Fable will now launch in February 2027 instead of its previous "autumn 2026" launch window. It has not been confirmed that GTA VI is the reason for the delay—which is not Fable's first delay, mind you—but Xbox's explanation that the game is being moved "so it can have the dedicated moment it deserves," seems to suggest that GTA VI may at least be one of the factors. The original release of Fable may also have been too close to the launch of Gears of War: E-Day, which is slated to launch in September 2026. The full statement by Xbox follows.

Xbox on XThis is year is packed with incredible games for XBOX players to enjoy, from Halo: Campaign Evolved, Gears of War: E-Day and Call of Duty Modern Warfare 4 to Control Resonant, Star Wars: Galactic Racer and Grand Theft Auto VI. In order to plan our game launches through the holidays, in a way that works best for players, we're moving Fable to February 2027 so it can have the dedicated moment it deserves. We're excited to be giving players a major new look at Fable, as well as our broader lineup, at XBOX Games Showcase on June 7.