Xbox turns 25 with fanta flavors & in-game loot

Microsoft is celebrating a quarter-century of Xbox with a refreshingly unexpected partnership: a collaboration with Fanta that’s delivering limited-edition cans, new flavors, and a wave of in-game rewards. Forget commemorative pins; we’re talking about dipping your controller in a fizzy, fruit-flavored tribute to gaming history.

A burst of flavor across iconic franchises

The promotion, launching April 6th, pairs classic Xbox franchises with bespoke Fanta flavors. Forza Horizon 6 gets a Grape twist, while Call of Duty is fueled by Orange. Fans of the grimdark can indulge in Diablo IV with Crimson Sour Cherry, and Halo warriors can refuel with Pineapple. Even World of Warcraft gets a nod, with a Strawberry flavor to accompany your next raid.

But the true novelty arrives in the form of Fanta Crimson Sour Cherry, a completely new flavor conceived specifically for the Xbox anniversary. The promotion isn’t just about taste, though; each pack contains QR codes unlocking in-game rewards and a chance to win significant prizes.

The breadth of rewards is striking. Completing “Fanta Rewards Chest” challenges could land you an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, a new Xbox controller, an Xbox Series S console, or even the hotly anticipated ROG Xbox Ally handheld. Digital goodies are also up for grabs, including Halo’s “Master Chief’s Fantastic Spartan Armor,” a Fantastical Goblin Waveshredder mount in World of Warcraft, and tactical calling cards in Call of Duty. The 1966 Toyota Sports 800 Fanta Edition for Forza Horizon 6 is a particularly appealing prize for car enthusiasts.

A live event & what's next for xbox

The celebration culminates in an immersive Diablo IV fan event in Los Angeles from May 22-25, where players can confront Mephisto himself – and presumably, enjoy a frosty Fanta. The event promises a tangible connection with the game’s lore, blurring the lines between the virtual and the real.

Beyond the Fanta fanfare, Microsoft has a packed calendar. The much-anticipated Xbox Games Showcase is slated for June, and Gears of War: E-Day will receive a dedicated post-show Direct. Looking further ahead, 2026 brings the reboot of Fable alongside the return of Master Chief in Halo: Campaign Evolved. Playground Games’ Forza Horizon 6 is set to ignite its engines in May, promising another visually stunning open-world racing experience.

The partnership between Xbox and Fanta might seem unconventional, but it’s a savvy move to reach a broader audience and inject some playful energy into the gaming landscape. The combination of familiar flavors, in-game rewards, and real-world prizes certainly has the potential to resonate with both longtime Xbox fans and a new generation of gamers.