Xbox’s tough 2026 continued in September with another round of shake-ups that left fans little to be optimistic about. Layoffs and studio departures have made the future of Microsoft’s gaming brand unclear as its focus tightens around major IP. Considering the grim vibe, October has become a crucial month for Xbox. Two major first-party releases, plus a slew of promising Xbox Game Pass additions, will need to impress players enough to keep looking forward to Project Helix.
Though Microsoft is fighting an uphill battle, it does have some much-needed help in October. Gears of War and Call of Duty will co-headline Xbox’s healthiest month so far this year, at least when it comes to new games. If you’re looking for a reason to keep your Series X running this fall, keep these upcoming games on your radar.
1
Gears of War: E-Day
Release date: Oct. 6
Even without the high-stakes business drama happening at Microsoft, Gears of War: E-Day was always going to be a big deal for Xbox. The third-person shooter looks to keep one of Xbox’s crown jewel franchises relevant with a prequel full of blood, guts, and testicle monsters. Based on what we’ve played across a few previews, fans of the series are in for a good time. Despite it taking the series to the beginning of the Gears timeline to show how Emergence Day unfolded, it’s still the same testosterone-fueled action romp, complete with a thrilling Horde mode. If you only have time to play one new Xbox game this month, E-Day will be your likely pick.
2
Star Wars: Galactic Racer
Release date: Oct. 6
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