Defining Duke, Episode 282 | Our Xbox Games Showcase 2026 Predictions... (Patreon)

It's officially showcase season! As tradition dictates, Rand Al Thor 19 of Xbox Two joins the Dukes for a smorgasbord of predictions! This year, we approach things a touch differently. Yes, we get into every (!) first party studio under the Xbox folder as per usual. However, 2026 marks the first Asha Sharma led summer showcase. With many business decisions up in the air ranging from exclusivity to hardware, this feels like a great time for Xbox's new lead to truly put her mark on the brand. With the "This is an Xbox" slogan out the window, will Xbox dare to don the logos of other platforms on their own stage? What of Project Helix? Much of Asha's rallying cry has been around "Return to XBOX." So, is it too early to show what Helix is truly made of during the 25th anniversary year of the brand? Will the shortage on consumer electronics plague what could be a massive announcement for the brand? Indeed, this showcase is a central point for a lot of business decisions that Asha could make in front of a crowd. Given this is her first showcase, the trio discusses what her "Hail Mary" moment can be. Is it time for a new Elder Scrolls VI trailer? Hi Fi Rush 2? Persona 6 or Final Fantasy VII Remake Part 3? A sequel to Fallout: New Vegas? There are many avenues for Xbox's new lead to take! Join us as we debate the appearance of over 30 first party studios, dig into third party partnerships, and stew over what could be a monumental showcase for the brand!

Timestamps:0:00:00 - Intro

0:11:18 - Exclusivity

0:43:01 - Hardware

1:06:13 - Activision

1:17:28 - Arkane

1:25:33 - Bethesda Game Studios

1:35:38 - Coalition

1:41:07 - Compulsion

1:42:44 - Double Fine

1:45:13 - Halo Studios

1:59:38 - iD Software

2:03:45 - InXile

2:18:42 - MachineGames

2:27:09 - Mojang

2:29:05 - Ninja Theory

2:32:13 - Obsidian Entertainment

2:38:00 - Playground

2:48:14 - Rare

2:53:22 - Turn 10

2:54:11 - Undead Labs

2:59:27 - World's Edge

3:02:08 - Xbox Game Studios Publishing