The next generation of gaming is right around the corner, but for many, it remains unclear what exactly makes the coming cohort of games “next-gen." After theHalo Infinitegraphics controversy, theXbox Series Xis under particular scrutiny in this regard, but there are plenty of indicators that next-gen is shaping up to be something special.
It is theXbox’s line-up of RPGsthat could draw many players to the platform over the PS5. Between Obsidian’s first-person RPGAvowedand the long-awaitedFable, the Xbox could be the preferred platform for fantasy fans if Microsoft plays its cards right. What remains to be seen is whether these games will take the necessary steps forward to feel “next-gen” compared to their predecessors.
RELATED:Avowed Could Be Xbox Series X’s Biggest System Seller
Avowed
Avowedis one of the most hotly anticipated games for the Xbox Series X, at least so far. The teaser trailer was released last month, and confirmed longstanding rumors that Obsidian would adapt itsPillars of Eternitysettinginto a more mainstream genre than its first two isometric outings.
Not only that, but diminishing faith in Bethesda to deliverThe Elder Scrolls 6after many fans foundFallout 4to be disappointing has given Obsidian – and, by extension, Microsoft – a huge opportunity to take over that corner of the market. Obsidian of all companies is in the best position to do so, having gained a lot of good-will from Bethesda fans for its work onFallout: New Vegas, as well as its recent first-person sci-fi RPG,The Outer Worlds. IfAvowedcontinues to be hyped up as the spiritual successor toSkyrim,it could not only be a huge seller for the Xbox Series X and Obsidian, but a reason for players to take the risk on the Xbox Series X when thePS5 exclusives likeGod of Warhave more mainstream name recognition.
If Obsidian is going to help launch the Xbox Series X,Avowedwill need to feel next-generation in more than its graphics.Skyrim’s flaws,such as how little impact the player actually has on the world, the limited number of voice actors, and the lacking main story will need to be overcome byAvowed. Ironically for a next-gen release, the challenge is less in the hardware and more in the design philosophy and budget. ManyElder Scrollsfans will be hoping Obsidian is given the time and creative control it needs to take the genre to the next level and step out fromSkyrim’s shadow.
RELATED:Avowed’s Story Needs to Learn One Big Thing from The Outer Worlds
Fable
TheFableseries has its own troubled past, and likeAvowedhas the potential to pay big dividends to the Xbox Series X.Fable 3was disappointingto many fans, with many players feeling that the game over-promised and under-delivered.
With Microsoft’s Head of Studios saying that theFableteam has a “unique viewof what’s core toFable,” some fans will be as concerned for the franchise’s future as they are excited. However, the opportunity to relive the glory days ofFable 1andFable 2will likely be too tempting for many players and could help draw them to the Xbox Series X.
For now, most of the information players have for bothFableandAvowedis from the teaser trailers. If Microsoft wants to capitalize on the hype created this past month, both studios involved will need to demonstrate that these games aren’t merely a return to the RPGs genre’s past. Fans will need a consistent demonstration of exciting new design philosophies that will make everything, from the graphics to the combat to the style of storytelling feel innovative and experimental. It’s undoubtedly a risk, but one which could pay off big for the Xbox Series X launch.
