Xbox's upcoming Developer Direct will unveil four games, with the fourth remaining a secret. Hints suggest it's a new installment in a renowned Japanese franchise.

Next week's Developer Direct, Xbox's third annual, follows the successful format established in January 2023. The inaugural event unexpectedly launched Tango Gameworks' Hi-Fi Rush, setting a high bar for subsequent shows. Last year's Direct featured Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, and a presentation by Square Enix showcasing Visions of Mana.

This year's event, scheduled for Thursday, January 23rd, will showcase Doom: The Dark Ages, South of Midnight, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. The identity of the fourth game, however, is shrouded in mystery. Fan speculation ranges from Fable and The Outer Worlds 2 to Gears of War: E-Day.

Industry insider Jez Corden offers a clue: the mystery game is a "new entry in a legendary Japanese IP with decades of history," suggesting it's not from an Xbox first-party studio.

While a new Square Enix title, perhaps a Final Fantasy game, is tempting, Square's PlayStation partnerships and the recent release of major Final Fantasy titles make this unlikely.

Other possibilities include Capcom's Resident Evil (though traditionally revealed at PlayStation events), Sega's Persona (given Xbox's collaboration with Sega on Metaphor: ReFantazio), and a potential Ninja Gaiden revival from Team Ninja, considering the franchise's history with Xbox.

Ultimately, the mystery remains. Tune in to the Xbox Developer Direct on January 23rd to uncover the truth.