Insider Shinobi602 initially reported this, noting that he was “not very excited” based on his personal tastes, without mentioning any further details. VGC’s Andy Robinson followed up by alleging that it would be a third-party title. However, the site has since posted a correction. “This is a smaller original game from a first-party studio, and not a third-party game.”

Let the speculation run wild, especially considering rumors of Obsidian Entertainment working on four new games. Perhaps a sequel to Pentiment is on the cards? Of course, there’s also Double Fine Productions, which released Keeper last year but could have another project, this one directed by Tim Schafer, to showcase.

Could we perhaps see something from Ninja Theory? Hellblade 3 doesn’t seem all that likely, especially given how long ago the studio’s next project was allegedly greenlit. However, there is Project: Mara, which the studio has been quietly working on in the background since 2020.

With the Developer_Direct set for January 22nd, the wait is excruciating. Interestingly, we may get some other bombshell announcements, including Fable allegedly launching day and date on PS5 alongside Xbox Series X/S and PC.

Along with reporting that the teaser site is not leading to a shadow drop for a new Fallout game (much less a remaster), he revealed that the remaster is coming “eventually.” Interestingly, Corden added, “as well as Fallout: New Vegas on top,” which wouldn’t be surprising given the focus of Fallout Season 2.

And while it’s unknown if one of them could be a new Fallout, there are apparently four new projects in the works at Obsidian Entertainment, “some big, some small.” He also reiterated that Fallout 5 has allegedly been greenlit, and while a teaser at an upcoming showcase isn’t out of the question, it’s got a long way to go.

Of course, this is all leading up to the next Xbox Developer_Direct, scheduled for later this month. Microsoft didn’t confirm what would be shown, simply noting that Playground Games would be present. However, Corden says it’s “highly likely” that Fable and Forza Horizon 6, alongside Gears of War: E-Day and Halo: Campaign Evolved (allegedly referred to internally as the “four horsemen) could appear.

Microsoft president of game content and studios Matt Booty told Variety that, “I can’t share exactly what’s there, but we’ve got a lot of stuff that we’re shipping next year. In fact, usually Dev Direct is about highlighting what’s coming up for the year ahead. This year, we’ve got more stuff coming up than we can fit in one show.”

Playground Games is confirmed for the Direct, but “we’ll have more stuff next year to ship than we can fit into one Dev Direct show in January, which is a good place to be.” Obviously, Booty didn’t specify which of its games we’ll dive deeper into, but a safe assumption is Forza Horizon 6, which is rumored to launch in the first half of next year.

It wouldn’t be too strange to see Fable, though, especially after its delay earlier this year. Despite rumors of another delay to 2027 (however remote), there’s hope that this Developer Direct will clarify its status.

Otherwise, there’s also Clockwork Revolution, Gears of War: E-Day, and Halo: Campaign Evolved, all launching next year. Who knows? We may even see the first trailer for Starfield’s next expansion, rumored to launch alongside its PS5 port in Spring 2026. Don’t count on The Elder Scrolls 6, especially with director Todd Howard recently reminding us it’s a “long way off.”

Along with sticking to the dark atmosphere that defined the series, Tokyo presents some stressfull scenarios. With the miasma rain causing significant destruction, you run into collapsing buildings while grinding on rails as newcomer Yakumo. Exploration yields hidden items, challenges, and more, so its worth going off the beaten path.

Fiends and other enemies return alongside 1v1 battles with enemies that can block your attacks. Searching for the right moment to attack is important, but Yakumo’s skills truly shine when fighting crowds. While he has the Raven Style, the Bloodraven Form is perhaps the most intriguing element.

Utilized to fight off multiple enemies, PlatinumGames director Yuji Nakao described it as “a technique that manipulates the blood of oneself and enemies, transforming it into a massive weapon capable of slicing through multiple foes at once.

“Yakumo fights using Bloodraven Form, and when certain conditions are met, he can unleash a move called ‘Bloodbath Kill,’ which instantly bisects enemies in one strike.” These “large-scale, high-damage attacks” allow for turning the tide instantly against multiple enemies.

Of course, classic moves like the Flying Swallow and Izuna Drop return, which both Yakumo and Ryu Hayabusa can utilize. However, there are also fresh moves appearing for the first time in the series. Fans can also expect new and returning characters.

Ninja Gaiden 4 launches in Fall 2025 for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC. It will also be available for Game Pass.

Speaking to Xbox Wire, PlatinumGames’ director and producer Yuji Nakao revealed that the title is currently 70 to 80 percent complete with the team entering the polishing phase. “We’ll continue to work closely with Team NINJA, ensuring every detail meets the expectations of fans.” More details will be revealed to help players “understand just how fun and exciting this game is,” so stay tuned.

Interestingly, there may be a chance for hands-on time gameplay before launch. Team Ninja head Fumihiko Yasuda said the team is “looking into ways to give you opportunities to get hands-on experience.” A pre-release demo be far-fetched – Nioh 1, Nioh 2, and Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty all received the same. Rise of the Ronin also received a demo, though that was post-launch.

Ninja Gaiden 4 launches this Fall for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC while coming to Game Pass on day one. Team Ninja also shadow-dropped Ninja Gaiden 2 Black today for Xbox Series X/S and Game Pass. Head here for more details.

The story focuses on Tokyo, wreaked by the remaining husk of the Dark Dragon and the endless rain. It’s up to a new protagonist, Yakumo from th Raven Clan, to end the suffering. Of course, Ryu Hayabusa returns, playing a “pivotal” role and clashing with Yakumo, which makes sense given their clans are rivals.

Retaining the series’ signature high-speed combat, Ninja Gaiden 4 offers enhanced verticality with wall-running, wall-jumping, and even grappling. You can also look forward to the return of Obliteration and Ultimate Techniques. Stay tuned for more details en route to its launch later this year. In the meantime, fans can experience Ninja Gaiden 2 Black, which is out today.

Redfall, Forza Motorsport and Minecraft Legends are expected to appear, along with content from ZeniMax Online Studios. The event will also reportedly provide a closer look at major titles coming this year. Developer_Direct may be a new initiative for Microsoft to provide updates on its upcoming releases on a more frequent basis.

While the date of the event could shift, its occurrence is looking more and more likely, especially with Redfall rumored to release in May. There’s also Bethesda’s Starfield, recently re-confirmed for launch in the first half of 2023, though it apparently may skip the event for a “bigger marketing beat” later. Given Corden’s earlier tweet about a potential announcement in the coming days, we may hear from Microsoft later this week. Stay tuned for more details in the meantime.