Summary
- Xbox's Developer Direct next week will showcase four games, with the identity of the fourth game currently a mystery.
- The mystery game is hinted to be a new entry in a legendary Japanese IP.
- Possible candidates for the mystery game include Resident Evil, Persona, and a new Ninja Gaiden, but it could be something entirely different.
Xbox's third-annual Developer Direct, set to go live next week, continues to build anticipation among gaming enthusiasts. Since its inception in January 2023, these events have allowed developers from Xbox's studios to connect directly with fans, sharing insights into their upcoming titles. The inaugural event famously introduced Tango Gameworks' acclaimed Hi-Fi Rush via a shadow drop, cementing the Developer Direct's reputation as a must-watch event. Last year's showcase featured deep dives into Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, and even included a segment from Square Enix showcasing Visions of Mana.
Scheduled for next Thursday, January 23, this year's Developer Direct promises to reveal more about three highly anticipated 2025 releases: Doom: The Dark Ages, South of Midnight, and Sandfall Interactive's intriguing turn-based RPG, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. In addition to these confirmed titles, Xbox has teased a fourth mystery game, sparking widespread speculation among fans. Some are hoping for updates on Fable, The Outer Worlds 2, or even Gears of War: E-Day.
In a recent Windows Central feature, industry insider Jez Corden shed light on the fourth mystery game, suggesting it's a "new entry in a legendary Japanese IP with decades of history." This clue has led many to believe the game won't be from Xbox's first-party studios, further fueling speculation.
Given Square Enix's previous appearance with Visions of Mana, some speculate they might return with a new Final Fantasy title. However, Square's ongoing partnership with PlayStation for the Final Fantasy series, coupled with recent releases of major games, makes this less likely.
Other speculated titles include Capcom's Resident Evil, which, despite typically being revealed at PlayStation events, could be ready for a reveal with Resident Evil 9 reportedly in development. Sega's Persona series is another strong contender, especially after Xbox's collaboration with Sega on Metaphor: ReFantazio's marketing, and with rumors swirling about Persona 6's 2025 release. There's also the possibility of a new Ninja Gaiden from Team Ninja, given the franchise's historical ties to Xbox.
While these speculations are thrilling, the true identity of the mystery game remains to be seen. Fans are encouraged to tune into Xbox's Developer Direct on January 23 to learn more about Compulsion Games' South of Midnight, Doom: The Dark Ages, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and to discover the identity of the mysterious fourth game.
