A credible insider suggests that Xbox might announce a Developer Direct presentation on January 9. These events are known for previewing upcoming first-party games and, given Xbox's robust lineup for 2025, a Developer Direct in the coming weeks seems likely.
Xbox's inaugural Developer Direct took place in January 2023, where Hi-Fi Rush was notably shadow-dropped. The format of Xbox Developer Direct is unique; it's not hosted by a single entity but by the studios themselves, allowing for in-depth looks into game development, mechanics, and core concepts. Xbox followed up with another Developer Direct in January 2024, showcasing games like Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, and Avowed.
With numerous Xbox first-party titles slated for 2025, a new Developer Direct seems imminent. A recent tweet from the well-known Game Pass leaker eXtas1s hints that Xbox might announce the Developer Direct on January 9, with the event possibly occurring on January 23. This rumor gains further credibility from Microsoft insider Jez Corden, who mentioned an upcoming announcement for an Xbox Developer Direct.
Xbox has a packed schedule for 2025, which could make this Developer Direct the most significant one yet. Id Software, silent since summer 2024, might reveal more about Doom: The Dark Ages. Obsidian's The Outer Worlds 2 could receive a deep dive and a release date, while Avowed might get a final trailer before its February 14, 2025 launch. South of Midnight and Fable are also eagerly awaited titles that could benefit from in-depth presentations and release date announcements. Additionally, there are rumors of an Unreal Engine 5 remake of The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion being featured.
Xbox had a successful run in the latter half of 2024 with major releases like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, STALKER 2, and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. With 2025 poised to be even more significant, the upcoming Developer Direct is anticipated to set the stage for the year's gaming highlights.