When the head of Xbox talks, gamers listen. And in a recent interview following the Tokyo Game Show 2025, Phil Spencer gave fans of classic Xbox a huge dose of hope. When asked about the potential for reviving dormant franchises, Spencer didn’t just give a vague corporate answer; he specifically named the four IPs that he and his team hear about from fans more than any others. The reveal has sent a shockwave of excitement and speculation through the community, as these are some of the most beloved and requested titles in Xbox history.
The Four Most-Wanted Comebacks
So, which legendary franchises made the list? It’s a murderer’s row of cult classics from the original Xbox and Xbox 360 eras. Here are the four games Spencer says are constantly being requested by the community:
- Crimson Skies: An action-packed flight combat game set in an alternate 1930s where air pirates rule the skies. Known for its arcade-style dogfighting and charismatic hero, Nathan Zachary, it remains a high-flying fan favorite.
- Lost Odyssey: A sprawling, epic Japanese RPG from the legendary creator of Final Fantasy, Hironobu Sakaguchi. Released on the Xbox 360, it told the emotional story of Kaim, an immortal warrior living through a thousand years of love, loss, and conflict. It’s often cited as one of the best JRPGs of its generation.
- Blue Dragon: Another JRPG masterpiece from Sakaguchi, with character designs by Dragon Ball creator Akira Toriyama. This Xbox 360 exclusive was a more light-hearted, traditional adventure that captured the hearts of many with its charm and classic turn-based combat.
- MechAssault: A bombastic third-person shooter that was a flagship launch title for the original Xbox and its groundbreaking Xbox Live service. It let players pilot massive battle mechs and cause incredible destruction in online multiplayer matches.
Is This a Hint or Just Acknowledgment?
This is the million-dollar question. Spencer was careful not to confirm that any of these games are in active development. However, the fact that he named them so specifically is significant. It shows that the leadership at Xbox is acutely aware of the community’s desires. In the past, such direct acknowledgment has sometimes preceded an actual announcement. With Xbox’s massive first-party portfolio, which includes dozens of studios, the company is better positioned than ever to bring back these classic IPs. The ever-growing library of Xbox Game Pass also provides the perfect platform to reintroduce these beloved franchises to a new generation of players.
This reveal also fits perfectly with Spencer’s broader message from Tokyo Game Show, where he emphasized Xbox’s renewed focus on Japanese development and partnerships, highlighted by the announcement that Forza Horizon 6 will be set in Japan. Reviving two of the most celebrated JRPGs ever to grace an Xbox console, Lost Odyssey and Blue Dragon, would be a powerful statement of that commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the four most-requested franchise revivals according to Phil Spencer?
The four franchises are Crimson Skies, Lost Odyssey, Blue Dragon, and MechAssault.
Did Phil Spencer confirm that these games are being remade or rebooted?
No, he did not confirm any active development. He only stated that these are the four franchises that fans ask for most frequently.
Where did this information come from?
The reveal came from an interview with Phil Spencer that took place following Microsoft’s presence at the Tokyo Game Show 2025.
Why are these games so beloved?
They are all considered cult classics from the original Xbox and Xbox 360 eras. Crimson Skies and MechAssault were praised for their fun, action-packed gameplay, while Lost Odyssey and Blue Dragon are considered two of the best Japanese RPGs ever made.
What does this mean for the future of Xbox?
It shows that Xbox leadership is listening to fan feedback and is aware of the demand for its classic IPs. While not a confirmation, it raises hopes that we could see these franchises return in some form in the future, possibly on Xbox Game Pass.
Conclusion
For years, fans have been championing the return of these classic titles on forums and social media. To have the head of Xbox himself validate those requests is a huge moment. While we need to keep our expectations in check until an official announcement is made, it’s hard not to feel a surge of optimism. Phil Spencer has just poured gasoline on the fire of fan hope, and now the entire Xbox community will be watching and waiting to see if one of these legendary franchises will finally get the modern revival it so richly deserves.