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 .