Xbox Rumored to Be Developing New Entry in Ori Series
Industry insiders suggest a new installment of the acclaimed Metroidvania franchise may be in development.
Xbox may soon expand one of its most prestigious first-party franchises. Reports from industry insiders suggest that a new entry in the Ori series is currently in development or prepared for a public reveal.
The rumors center on claims from prominent leaker NateTheHate, who indicates that the series is poised for a return. While the specific timing of an official announcement remains speculative, the reports suggest that Xbox could unveil the project in the near future. These claims have been corroborated across several gaming news outlets, including GamesRadar+, ResetEra, and VGTimes, though Microsoft has not officially commented on the development of a new title.
A Legacy of Artistry
The Ori series, developed by Moon Studios and published by Xbox Game Studios, has established itself as a benchmark for the Metroidvania genre. The franchise currently consists of two titles: 'Ori and the Blind Forest' and 'Ori and the Will of the Wisps'. Both games earned widespread critical acclaim for their seamless blend of challenging platforming, exploration, and a distinct, hand-painted visual style that distinguishes them from other titles in the Xbox ecosystem.
Impact on the Xbox Portfolio
A return to the world of Ori would represent a significant strategic win for Xbox. In a landscape often dominated by high-budget shooters and open-world RPGs, the series serves as a critical pillar of the platform's "indie-style" prestige offerings. By maintaining a foothold in the high-art, atmospheric adventure space, Xbox can appeal to a broader demographic of players who prioritize aesthetic innovation and tight, focused gameplay loops over sheer scale.
Looking Ahead
While the core rumor of a new game is widely reported, several details remain unconfirmed. The exact nature of the new entry—whether it is a direct sequel or a spin-off—has not been disclosed. Furthermore, while some speculation has linked a potential reveal to major industry events like Gamescom, no official date has been set. For now, the gaming community is left to watch for a formal confirmation from Moon Studios or Xbox Game Studios.