Fable Trademark Renewed by Microsoft With “Intent To Use”

The rumors surrounding the continuation of the Fable franchise have been rampant for years ever since the studio behind this franchise shuttered their doors for good. While we’ve had numerous leaks that seemed 100% legitimate, we still don’t have any official news about what’s next for Fable. With Microsoft’s showcase coming up this month, fans noticed that the company once more renewed the trademark for Fable which, of course, sparked those Fable 4 rumors up once more. 

The Fable trademark was once again renewed on June 26th and while this in itself isn’t particularly newsworthy, the timing is what has fans excited in addition to an added notation. Many times companies will keep those trademarks fresh so they don’t lose the rights to certain IPs. In this case, however, we know Xbox has big plans for their upcoming showcase and, unlike previous times, the “Intent to Use” tag on the trademark application was marked “Yes,” which amplified those hopes even more. 

While Microsoft has attempted to dissuade rumors regarding the return of Fable, leaked trailers, release dates, and leaked documents from the new studio allegedly taking over the franchise seem to point otherwise. When Lionhead Studios, the studio behind the glorious Fable franchise, shut down years ago, fans of the widely beloved RPG series were crushed and disheartened. Then, there was a glimmer of hope! Numerous reports, leaks, and insiders stated that Fable 4 is currently in development with the help of PlayGround Studios, though no one has been able to get 100% confirmation on that.

Microsoft has a big Xbox showcase towards the end of July planned with more on the Xbox Series X and for which games players can expect to get their hands on by, or following, launch. If Fable is indeed one of those reveals, you’ll know instantly. You’ll be able to tell by the frantic pterodactyl screeching you’ll hear from the Prima Games office. It’s me. I’m the screeching person. 

• Fable 4 details leaked, including multiplayer and an open-world
• Rumored Fable 4 project nabs former Red Dead Redemption 2 devs and members from Lionhead Studios
• Behind the scenes of our Fable Anniversary guide

What do you think about Microsoft’s “intend to use” tag for the Fable trademark renewal? Do you think they are teasing a Fable revival with Fable 4 or are fans reading too much into it? Sound off with your thoughts over on Twitter @PrimaGames, we’d love to hear your theories on what’s next for the beloved RPG series. 

H/T IGN