Next week's Xbox Developer Direct will showcase four games, with the identity of the fourth remaining a mystery. Hints suggest it's a new installment in a renowned Japanese franchise.
Xbox's Developer Direct, now in its third year, provides a platform for developers to interact with fans. The inaugural event saw the surprise release of Hi-Fi Rush, establishing the show's reputation. Last year's event featured Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, and a presentation by Square Enix showcasing Visions of Mana.
This year's Direct, airing January 23rd, will highlight Doom: The Dark Ages, South of Midnight, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. The fourth game, however, is shrouded in secrecy. Speculation ranges from Fable and The Outer Worlds 2 to Gears of War: E-Day.
Industry insider Jez Corden suggests the mystery game is a "new entry in a legendary Japanese IP with decades of history," ruling out some first-party Xbox studio rumors.
While a new Square Enix title, perhaps a Final Fantasy game, seems plausible given their previous appearance, their existing PlayStation partnerships make this unlikely.
Other strong contenders include Capcom's Resident Evil (though traditionally revealed at PlayStation events, Resident Evil 9 is rumored to be ready for a reveal), Sega's Persona (following their collaboration with Xbox on Metaphor: ReFantazio and rumors of a 2025 Persona 6 release), and a potential Ninja Gaiden revival from Team Ninja, given their strong association with Xbox during the original Xbox era.
Ultimately, all this is conjecture. Viewers should tune into the Xbox Developer Direct on Thursday, January 23rd, to uncover the mystery.
