Reports suggest Fable's 2026 delay stems from deeper issues than the officially cited need for polish. Insider accounts paint a picture of significant development challenges. Extas1s claims Playground Games is struggling with the ForzaTech engine, a tool ill-suited for the demands of an open-world RPG. Early gameplay, according to Extas1s, lacked engagement, necessitating substantial reworking of mechanics and pacing.
HeisenbergFX4 echoes these concerns, suggesting the game's incompleteness raises doubts about a 2026 release. The planned PlayStation release adds another layer of complexity, requiring Fable to meet Sony's high standards. With the reception of Starfield and the mixed response to Avowed, HeisenbergFX4 highlights the high stakes for Microsoft, who cannot afford another major game failure.