Gamescom 2026 is set to kick off next week, and a trusted insider has sparked speculation about a surprise Xbox sequel announcement. NateTheHate, known for accurate leaks, has hinted at a 'neat Xbox announcement' during the event, but has only provided cryptic clues, leaving fans to guess the franchise.
Insider Hints at Xbox Sequel Reveal
According to NateTheHate, the game is a sequel to a recent Xbox IP, developed by a third-party studio, and could release before the end of the year. He has already ruled out Fallout, Wolfenstein, Starcraft, and Banjo-Kazooie, narrowing the possibilities. The insider's track record includes leaking Nintendo's remakes of Star Fox and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, adding credibility to his claims.
The announcement is expected during Geoff Keighley's Opening Night Live on Tuesday, August 25, at 7pm BST. Other confirmed appearances include CD Projekt's new DLC for The Witcher 3 and a new trailer for Final Fantasy 7 Revelation, presented by director Naoki Hamaguchi.
Possible Candidates: Ori, ReCore, Crackdown, or Sunset Overdrive
Fans have speculated on several franchises. A new Ori game is a common suggestion, given Microsoft published Ori and the Blind Forest (2015) and its sequel (2020), but developer Moon Studios remains independent and had a falling out with Microsoft. NateTheHate said he's 'really curious to see how they approach this IP,' hinting at a studio with no prior experience, which could rule out Ori.
Other candidates include ReCore (2016), an Xbox-only action platformer from now-defunct Armature Studio and Comcept, though it lacks a strong fanbase. Crackdown is another possibility, as the series has seen three games from different third-party studios, making a fourth plausible. Sunset Overdrive (2014) is also a contender, though its IP belongs to Insomniac Games, now owned by Sony, and Sony registered the trademark in 2021, suggesting a sequel or port is unlikely.
Impact and What's Next
The reveal could be significant for Xbox, which recently faced backlash for closing several studios and planning more layoffs. The event will air next week, and Xbox is expected to have a presence, though fan reception may be frosty. The identity of the sequel remains unconfirmed, but the answer is just days away.
