Microsoft will celebrate 25 years of the original Xbox console in 2026, and the company has hinted that fans can expect a big year ahead. While it hasn’t shared its full anniversary plans yet, Xbox boss Phil Spencer teased a strong lineup and major franchise comebacks during the official Xbox podcast following the Xbox Games Showcase.
“I wanted to make sure some of the franchises that we have talked about — and maybe we’re not showcasing them here at this show — I want people to know, when you think about Fable, when you think about Gears, when you think about Forza, these are franchises that have been really part of what makes Xbox what it is today,” Spencer said.
He added that while he’s happy with the games released so far in 2025 and expects the year to end well, 2026 will be “a really special year” for fans and Xbox.
The original Xbox launched in North America on November 15, 2001. Microsoft is expected to reveal its full anniversary celebrations ahead of that date in 2026.
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