Next week's Xbox Developer Direct will showcase four games, with the identity of the fourth remaining a secret. Hints suggest it's a new installment in a renowned Japanese franchise.

Xbox's Developer Directs, launched in January 2023, have become highly anticipated events, offering developers a direct line to fans. The inaugural event's surprise release of Hi-Fi Rush solidified its reputation. Last year's Direct featured Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, and a presentation by Square Enix showcasing Visions of Mana.

This year's Direct, airing January 23rd, will highlight Doom: The Dark Ages, South of Midnight, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. The mystery fourth game, however, is generating significant buzz. Speculation ranges from Fable and The Outer Worlds 2 to Gears of War: E-Day.

Industry insider Jez Corden of Windows Central suggests the mystery game is a "new entry in a legendary Japanese IP with decades of history," hinting at a third-party title.

While a return appearance by Square Enix with a new Final Fantasy title is plausible, current partnerships with PlayStation make this less likely. Other strong contenders include Capcom's Resident Evil (with Resident Evil 9 rumored to be in development), Sega's Persona (considering the rumored 2025 release of Persona 6 and Xbox's previous collaboration with Sega on Metaphor: ReFantazio), and a potential Ninja Gaiden revival from Team Ninja, given the franchise's history with Xbox.

Ultimately, all are just speculations. Tune in to the Xbox Developer Direct on Thursday, January 23rd, to uncover the mystery.