Lionhead founder was accused in no uncertain terms of over-hyping the first in some quarters of the media and in forums across the internet, and are trying to keep a lid on such hyperbole around Fable 2.

"I hope Fable 2 is going to be really beautiful and that it will be considered the best-looking game," Microsoft's told at the DICE Summit this week.

The Game Studios boss added: "I'm trying to do Peter's job a little bit, because Peter was accused of over-hyping Fable 1. And so we've been keeping Peter really focused. I obviously believe it's going to be a huge title."

Molyneux spoke candidly about the impact of hype following the release of Fable 1, the developer admitting: "What happens is that we strive to include absolutely everything we've ever dreamt of and, in my enthusiasm, I talk about it to anyone who'll listen, mainly in press interviews. When I tell people about what we're planning, I'm telling the truth, and people, of course, expect to see all the features I've mentioned."

Molyneux will, however, be discussing Fable 2 at the GDC this

By Luke Guttridge