GamesCom 2009: Microsoft Game Studios boss Peter Molyneux took to the stage on the first day of GamesCom in Cologne to make an announcement and, while it wasn’t exactly as massive as Sony’s reveal of the PS3 Slim, the unveiling of Fable 3 was still pretty big.

Set some years after the events of Fable 2, Fable 3 sees the realm of Albion being moved through into a more industrial age than any we’ve previously seen – though it isn’t the architecture which is the focus here. Instead, the word on everyone’s lips is ‘revolution’. Simply put, Fable 3 will be the story of your rise to power as a king or queen of Albion.

With great power comes great responsibility though, with Molyneux saying that there’ll be an even greater emphasis than ever before on following the consequences of your actions – both in terms of your political promises as you rise to power, then your regal decrees once you’ve claimed the throne.

A few new features were mentioned for the game too, including a new Judgement feature that’ll let you make demands and laws for your people on a case-by-case basis. The other main feature is the new Touch system, which will replace the Expression mechanic and allow you to naturally upgrade in-game relationships, moving from handshake to hug and onwards.

“But there’ll be no cupping,” said a rather stern Molyneux before the rumours could start.

Judging from the overall tone of Molyneux’s speech it seemed like the main lesson the team is trying to impart with the game is how power naturally corrupts those who have it and how all leaders are bound by their humanity. Throughout Fable 3 you’ll have to balance personal and political commitments.

Interested in Fable 3? Let us know in the forums.