Microsoft might hold an Xbox-focused showcase in early 2023. There are also hints suggesting that Forza 8 and Forza Horizon 5 might get a new update there.
Jez Corden, who is an editor at Windows Central, mentions that Microsoft holding an Xbox Showcase in early 2023 is becoming more likely. He also talked about it in a new podcast where it was said that multiple sources appear to back this rumor. The leak suggests that either Microsoft is putting a show for their announcements in early 2023, or they might have something planned for their fans.
Other indications of an Xbox Showcase in early 2023 appear to come from Forza Horizon 5 and Forza 8 developers. In their monthly development update on Forza Horizon 5, Playground Games mentioned that they will be revealing details on their next expansion in early 2023.
Regarding Forza Motorsport 8, a similar thing was said by the developers they will be able to reveal more information on their game in early 2023. This lines up with the Forza Horizon 5 news as well.
The rumors of a new Xbox Showcase are becoming increasingly louder as the year ends. One of the reasons why fans have been asking for such a showcase is because of the lack of announcements from Xbox during The Game Awards 2022. There was zero news or announcement during The Game Awards for any of the upcoming Xbox projects. Even Starfield was missing from the event and there was no new footage or trailer shared during the event.
Xbox might have made a new production studio that could kickstart its style of showcases like State of Play or Nintendo Direct. This was speculated based on a now-deleted tweet from the Xbox Marketing Senior Producer Todd Kaumans. Aaron Greenberg, VP of Xbox Games Marketing, had also assured fans after the no-show at The Game Awards 2022 that they won’t have to wait that long for news.
Take this rumor with a pinch of salt as there is no official confirmation from Microsoft regarding a showcase. We might have to wait until after the holidays before any announcement is made regarding such a showcase if this rumor ends up being true.