Fable 2's XBLA Pub Games Debut in August; Collector's Edition Unveiled, Packs Exclusive DLC

Lionhead Studios' downloadable compilation of gambling mini-games from its upcoming RPG Fable II (360) will arrive in August, publisher Microsoft has announced.

Allowing users to transfer earned money into the retail edition of Fable II, the release sports three mini-games: "a combination of Craps and Roulette" known as Keystone, the luck-based Fortune's Tower, and the slot machine-esque Spinnerbox.

"It's not going to throw the balance of [Fable 2] unduly, because you can't buy magic, for example, with money," designer Peter Molyneux told Shacknews earlier this year. "You can't buy the skill levels on melee combat and on range combat with money, you have to buy it with experience."

The Xbox Live Arcade release of Fable II's Pub Games will be free to those who pre-order the title from select retailers, and will sell for 800 Microsoft Points ($10).

The mini-games will also be included in the retail release of Fable II, which is due out in $59.99 standard and $79.99 limited edition varities at some point this fall.

According to Microsoft, that limited collector's edition will sport "a bonus disc with a new behind-the-scenes making of video, collectible Hobbe figure, a LIVE trial card and additional [downloadable] in-game content." No details were provided as to the specifics of that exclusive content.