By Countless genuine ‘next-gen’ titles are on the horizon
Countless genuine ‘next-gen’ titles are on the horizon
- by Ben Kerry
It feels strange to assert this, but I sincerely doubt that Xbox Series X has been fully maximized nearly five years into its lifespan, and I’m certain I’m not the only one with that sentiment. Lately, we have finally begun to observe the cross-gen era fade away — which is excellent news for current-gen gamers — yet it still seems that much of the technology behind current-gen titles is derived from last-gen. Nevertheless, I believe this is about to transform in 2026, especially when you examine Xbox’s lineup of games for the upcoming year.
Before I proceed to discuss Microsoft’s plans, I must bring up GTA 6 in this context. Regarding actual tangible visuals accessible to the audience, the forthcoming Rockstar masterpiece genuinely appears to be the sole true current-gen game we’re witnessing at this point. The technology behind the next Grand Theft Auto looks lightyears ahead of practically everything we’ve encountered so far this generation, making it an incredibly thrilling prospect for the coming year alone.
Turning to Xbox’s 2026 lineup, however, the outlook is very encouraging in that domain as well. We have Fable, which seems like an authentic current-gen RPG designed specifically for Xbox Series X|S, we have Gears of War: E-Day making its full current-gen debut next year, and we have new Forza and Halo titles projected that are likewise free from any last-gen limitations. Exciting times lie ahead!
Gears of War: E-Day is one I am particularly enthusiastic about. I’ve always been a significant fan of Gears, and one thing no one can dispute is how technically impressive these titles typically are. Gears 3 was an Xbox 360 showcase, Gears 4 demonstrated similar prowess for Xbox One and then Gears 5 showcased Xbox One X in an incredibly impressive manner as well. Despite the latter’s impressive Series X|S enhancement, I’m eager to see The Coalition fully unlock the potential of those current-gen machines.
Fable is undeniably looking monumental as well, but we are still awaiting the significant reveal for that one, while the next Halo and Forza remain shrouded in secrecy at Xbox HQ. Phil Spencer has hinted at them all – but it will likely be during Developer Direct or the next summer showcase when we’ll get insights into the other two major Xbox releases in more detail.
Anyway, I just wanted to express that for those of you who resonate with me in that you’re still awaiting those major showcase Xbox Series X games, I believe they are on their way. 2026 is poised to be a monumental year for AAA game launches, and let’s hope they all highlight just how remarkable Microsoft’s top-tier current-gen console is.
Do you concur with my assessment? Which 2026 title are you most excited about? Share your thoughts with us below.
Ben serves as a News Writer at Pure Xbox and is an enthusiast of action, racing, and straightforward shooting in any Xbox game he can get his hands on. When he’s not gripping an Xbox controller like it’s essential for survival, Ben enjoys listening to music that’s far too dated for him, watching football on television, and likely dining somewhere.