State of Decay 3 confirms a 2027 release and closed beta plans amid Undead Labs' exit from Xbox ownership.
This week offers a mix of news and updates about both current and upcoming Xbox titles. Topping the list is the intriguing status of State of Decay 3, which has confirmed a 2027 release window and forthcoming closed beta plans for the end of 2026. Of significant note is that Undead Labs, the studio behind the title, will soon no longer be under Xbox’s ownership, adding a layer of complexity to the game’s development and future. These details surfaced amidst the buzz of Gamescom, where they were, unfortunately, somewhat overlooked (Pure Xbox).
Server Shutdowns and Retro Influx
Next, the cyclical nature of gaming sees the shutdown of servers for three iconic Xbox games in September. Most notably, the servers for GRID Legends will be deactivated on September 11, while Sociable Soccer 25 will follow suit on September 28. Though online functionalities will cease, offline play continues (Pure Xbox).
On a positive note for retro gaming enthusiasts, the Arcade Archives series is having a banner year. As of now, 38 classic titles have been released for the Xbox Series X|S in 2026, with some high-profile entries such as Tekken debuting in the mix. However, the lack of advanced announcements has led to many of these titles quietly appearing in the store, potentially causing them to be overlooked by prospective players (Pure Xbox).
Game Previews: Minecraft Dungeons II and METRO 2039
Gamescom also brought more insights into two major upcoming titles. Minecraft Dungeons II showcased new features at the event, emphasizing an evolved gaming experience that extends the original’s hack-and-slash dynamics with elements like a central hub town and novel boss fights. Players attending Gamescom had the opportunity to delve into these features firsthand (Xbox News).
Similarly, METRO 2039, the fourth installment in the METRO franchise, is set to release in February 2027. A preview of the game revealed a richly detailed post-apocalyptic world set in the familiar and treacherous Moscow Metro. This installment marks the return of its first voiced protagonist, engaging players in a narrative woven around a fascist regime. Early hands-on sessions highlight its engaging combat and impressive worldbuilding (Xbox News).
The mix of legacy game closures, the surprise release of retro titles, and fresh updates about eagerly awaited games like State of Decay 3 and METRO 2039 provide a clear picture of the dynamic period Xbox gamers are currently navigating. As the summer ends, these developments pave the way for a promising lineup heading into 2027.
