## Forza Horizon 6 Unveils at 2026’s Initial Microsoft Gaming Showcase

As we embark on 2026, Microsoft is poised to present its inaugural gaming showcase, spotlighting the eagerly awaited *Forza Horizon 6*. This event will act as a springboard for a range of thrilling titles set to launch in the upcoming year. Matt Booty, President of Microsoft Gaming Content, has confirmed that Playground Games will be integral to the Developer Direct scheduled for January. Among the other notable titles anticipated for next year are *Fable*, *Gears: E-Day*, and *Halo Remastered*, all coinciding with the 25th-anniversary festivities of Xbox.

## Microsoft Recognizes Difficulties with Annualizing Call of Duty

The *Call of Duty* franchise has encountered challenges lately, with *Black Ops 7* seemingly underperforming, prompting Activision to withhold sales figures. In response, Booty highlighted the challenges inherent in reliably launching a major franchise on an annual basis, expressing pride in the team’s achievements. He underscored the brand’s distinctive strengths in providing ongoing content, enhancing player involvement beyond initial releases via seasonal updates.

## Mortal Kombat 2 Producer Addresses Street Fighter Remarks

During a lighthearted exchange at the Game Awards, *Street Fighter* actor Andrew Schulz took the chance to make light of *Mortal Kombat 2*, suggesting that the absence of its characters indicated a lack of dedication to fans. Producer Todd Garner replied with a defensive stance, declaring that he does not uplift his work at the cost of others, reflecting the competitive nature shared between the two legendary fighting game series.

## Rockstar Games Upholds Position on Employee Terminations

In an ongoing argument concerning the terminations of several employees associated with *GTA 6*, Rockstar Games reiterated its stance, indicating these measures were motivated by leaks of private information rather than union activities. The IWGB union, which represents the laid-off developers, contested these assertions, accusing the company of utilizing misleading narratives to rationalize the dismissals, highlighting persistent conflicts in the industry regarding labor rights and corporate transparency.

## The Conclusion of an Era: Gainax Officially Shutters Its Operations

The anime community grieves the closure of Gainax, the studio responsible for groundbreaking works like *Neon Genesis Evangelion*. Creator Hideaki Anno reflected on the company’s legacy and its troubled downfall, characterized by internal conflicts and legal disputes with former partners. His reflections highlight the bittersweet reality of a company that significantly influenced anime culture but ultimately lacked the means to maintain its creative and business ambitions.

## South of Midnight Set to Launch on Switch 2 and PS5

*South of Midnight*, previously an Xbox exclusive, is scheduled to arrive on the Switch 2 and PS5 approximately one year after its original debut. This choice signifies a notable change in the game’s distribution model, transitioning from a console-exclusive format. The title recently garnered the “Games For Impact” award at the Game Awards, emphasizing its impactful narrative and innovative gameplay features.

## Conclusion

In conclusion, the gaming industry steps into 2026 with a whirlwind of activity, from the thrilling unveilings at Microsoft’s impending showcase to the ongoing debates shaping the landscape. As studios navigate both successes and obstacles, the excitement for forthcoming launches and further progression in gaming culture remains strong.