Cover art for Lionhead Studios' upcoming RPG gave everyone a major clue about the announcement to come, and today, Microsoft made it official: Fable III will make its way to the Xbox 360 and Windows PCs this holiday season.

The original Fable eventually made its way to PCs and Macs, but Fable II was an Xbox 360 exclusive, leading many gamers to wonder if they would have the chance to journey back to Albion on PC. Microsoft hinted at the possibility, and removed any doubt this morning.

"Microsoft Game Studios and Lionhead Studios present the thrilling new chapter in the Fable franchise exclusively on Xbox 360 and Windows," Microsoft said in a statement. "Action, drama, adventure and humor propel the story as players choose their journey to become King or Queen of Albion."


In announcing Fable III for Windows, Microsoft also provided details on the game's Limited Collector's Editition. Wrapped in a distinctive Fable book-like-box, the collector's edition will feature DLC to expand the adventure and in-box goodies, including:
A new quest: Uncover the mystery of the haunted forests of Silverpines and earn the legendary sword, Wolfsbane, deadly against wolves and balverines.

Exclusive location: Unlock a new region, ideal for settling down with a family and discovering new treasures.

Fable III playing cards: Created by Lionhead, these cards depict every type of character in Fable III, including Heroes, royals, rebels and villains from across Albion and beyond.

Guild Seal Coin: The coin features a Good side (blue) and Evil side (red) to assist players in making critical decisions that will impact the fate of the world forever.

A new dog breed: Renowned for its loyalty, the Boxer is a brave canine companion worthy of greatest Queens and Kings.

One unique outfit: Unearth one male and female outfit from the mysterious, faraway land of Aurora, a new destination in your Fable III adventures.
Fable III is set to launch for the Xbox 360 and Windows PCs this holiday season. The standard edition is priced at $59.99, and the collector's edition $79.99 on the Xbox 360. The PC version is priced at $49.99, and though the collector's edition in-game content will be available through download, Microsoft did not announce a collector's edition retail box for PC.



Sharkey says: Looking forward to this one, particularly how players will be given the ability to rule a kingdom after dispatching the big bad guy. And I'm curious how Lionhead will incorporate Natal controls into the game. But the news here is the PC release becoming official. What say you, PC gamer?