Following several rumors and reports, Xbox and Bethesda officially announce an upcoming Developer Direct for January 25 at 12 pm PT/ 3 pm ET, while explaining Starfield won't be there. That's because, to give it its proper due, Xbox and Bethesda are currently putting together a standalone showcase for a "deep dive" into Starfield's gameplay.

Many were quick to take note that Microsoft did not reveal any new games or even show any real trailers at The Game Awards 2022. This led to some concerns about Xbox's 2023 slate, though the Xbox Marketing VP stated, at the time, that the company would show more soon. This week, that same exec teased a "fun week" for the Xbox brand, which was followed by reports of this showcase. Now, it has been officially confirmed.

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The developer director will give fans an "inside look at some of the games coming to Xbox, PC, and Game Pass over the next few months," with the announcement outlining The Elder Scrolls Online, Forza Motorsport, Minecraft Legends, and Redfall. The language is pretty definitive in that these may be the only games in attendance, but this level of communication is certainly welcome. When the rumors of this event first stirred, many were worried about what Starfield skipping it would mean, but revealing that a standalone show for it is in the works was smart on Microsoft's behalf.

xbox bethesda

Confirmed Games for the Xbox-Bethesda Direct

  • The Elder Scrolls Online: Studio Director Matt Firor will reveal 2023's major Chapter update, which includes new regions of Tamriel, as well as a new feature coming to the game. The Developer Director will be followed by a full ESO Chapter Reveal event.
  • Forza Motorsport: Turn 10 will share gameplay and "Exciting new details."
  • Minecraft Legends: Mojang will show new Minecraft Legends gameplay focused on the PvP multiplayer experience
  • Redfall: Arkane will show "several minutes of gameplay," including single and multiplayer, while also highlighting combat, customization, bosses, the open world, and more.

While it's perhaps too early to rule out any surprises, what's most interesting about this developer direct is how Microsoft is communicating clear expectations for each game, including Starfield. Knowing it isn't there and why will surely manage hype going in, while each game mentioned to be there includes important details for fans to know. There are some suggestions that Microsoft wants to host smaller developer directs throughout the year, alongside major events like E3, Summer Game Fest, and The Game Awards, and this is perhaps the best way to do it.

Starfield releases in H1 2023 for PC and Xbox Series X/S.

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Source: Xbox News