Xbox’s launch portfolio appeared decent earlier this year, but recent resizing might have moved some promising titles to an early 2027 release window. However, it seems that a third-party studio is working on a Microsoft IP that is expected to surprise many gamers.

A new report via multiple insiders mentions that Xbox is preparing to reveal a sequel to an unexpected first-party franchise at Gamescom 2026. This project is not among any of the announced or known titles so far and is expected to release later this year.

Why it matters: Gamescom is usually reserved for known and expected projects, so this rumor has piqued the interest of many gamers. The mysterious first-party sequel entry could also help Xbox secure its standing among fans if it launches later this year.

This rumor mill started after reliable Xbox insider Jez Corden claimed that ‘an unexpected sequel’ is being prepared for a Gamescom presence.

While he heard from a single source, another insider, NateTheHate, clarified that multiple different sources also revealed the same tidbit of information to him. 

Further grilling from gamers had Nate say that revealing the game’s genre would give it away, and it’s certainly not a shooter of any kind.

Therefore, it’s not a Fallout Remaster, Wolfenstein 3, or the StarCraft shooter that has had many fans excited. Fans suspect we could be looking at Hi-Fi Rush 2, Ori 3, or Dusk Falls Part 2 here, but an argument can also be made against any of these mentions.

Gamescom is usually reserved for announced games, so this year’s event is also expected to be pretty special thanks to this mysterious sequel. However, it’s best to take these reports with a pinch of salt until Xbox officially confirms the sequel.

Do you think the unknown Microsoft IP sequel will turn out to be a complete surprise for everyone, or will it be something extremely obvious? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below, or join the discussion on the Tech4Gamers forum.