Bethesda Roadmap Explained: Fallout, The Elder Scrolls VI, Starfield

Bethesda has made six major announcements regarding the Fallout franchise. The RPG series has seen immense success since Bethesda took over the brand, and the Fallout series on Amazon Prime Video has further propelled it into the mainstream spotlight. Here are the five key announcements.

Fallout 3 and Fallout: New Vegas Remasters

Long rumored and now official: both Fallout 3 and Fallout: New Vegas are receiving remasters. These beloved RPGs were widely expected to receive the same treatment as The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. While official platform support remains to be confirmed, we are certain they will launch on Xbox Series X|S and PC. The Nintendo Switch 2 and PlayStation 5 are considered "usual suspects," though Microsoft’s recent shift in console exclusivity policy - exemplified by Clockwork Revolution and Gears of War: E-Day skipping PlayStation - means these remasters may follow suit. As of now, there is no official release window.

Fallout 3 launched in 2008 and marked Bethesda’s first foray into the Fallout brand. At the time, many fans were skeptical of the studio’s 3D approach, occasionally and mockingly referring to the title as "Oblivion with guns." However, The Elder Scrolls IV had been released only two years prior, and Bethesda was already an established RPG powerhouse; with Fallout 3, they proved the brand was in capable hands, achieving a 93 Metacritic average.

Two years later, Fallout: New Vegas arrived. Developed by industry veterans at Obsidian Entertainment - who have deep roots in the Fallout franchise - the game was a match made in heaven. Obsidian delivered an RPG that stole our hearts. The storytelling was top-notch, although the technical bugs occasionally spoiled the fun (even by Bethesda standards). This is understandable, given that Obsidian had a development cycle of less than two years.

Our take: We expect the same level of care that the Oblivion remaster (released in 2025) received, which proved to be much more than just a "lazy port." Personally, I am particularly looking forward to the Fallout: New Vegas remaster; it remains a massive fan favorite. While I hold it in high regard, I still maintain that Fallout 2 remains the pinnacle of the series.

A New Fallout Title by Obsidian

Speaking of Obsidian, the developer is actively working on a new Fallout title. Although specific details are scarce, we understand that Josh Sawyer is directing the game - a significant detail, as he previously directed both Fallout: New Vegas and Pillars of Eternity. The project is described as a standalone experience, suggesting an approach comparable to that of New Vegas. While a direct sequel to New Vegas would delight many fans, this new entry may take a very different direction.

This announcement follows recent news regarding layoffs within Microsoft’s Xbox division, which also impacted Obsidian. Only a week ago, we reported that the studio was shifting its focus from a potential Avowed 2 to this new Fallout project. Rumors suggest that Avowed 2 has been canceled, which is naturally disappointing news for fans of the series. However, the shift aligns with Microsoft's broader strategy to prioritize major franchises to restore the Xbox brand to its former prominence.

Bethesda studio head Todd Howard addressed the supposed rivalry between Bethesda and Obsidian, emphasizing that it does not exist and that there is a deep sense of mutual respect between the studios.

"You sort of say, 'Is there a way, or a window, or a pocket where we could do something together that really, really made sense?' And so we’re super excited about the opportunity, working together," Howard stated during an interview with Windows Central.

As of now, we have no information regarding release windows, platforms, or specific gameplay mechanics.

Our take: For me, this is the most significant news to come out of Bethesda’s recent roadmap. I am slightly concerned that Obsidian might once again be given a tight development window to realize their vision. Microsoft is likely keen to accelerate the release schedule for new Fallout installments - especially considering Fallout 76 was released back in 2018 - so we hope this will not result in a rushed production. Nevertheless, the prospect is incredibly exciting, and I am confident that Obsidian will deliver an experience we will all enjoy.

Fallout 76: Expansion and Evolution

Fallout 76 is very much alive and kicking, and it will receive a major expansion titled Raven Rock next year. It serves as a prequel story preceding the events of Fallout 3, which is fascinating from a lore perspective. The expansion will take players back to the iconic Capital Wasteland to explore the dark origins of the Enclave's infamous bunker. For longtime fans, this is a highly anticipated opportunity to witness how this powerful faction began consolidating its influence in the region long before the Lone Wanderer emerged from the vault.

The multiplayer take on Fallout got off to a notably rocky start when it released in 2018, receiving an average score of 52 on Metacritic. However, Bethesda did not give up; the studio continued to support Fallout 76 to rectify its initial shortcomings. A massive overhaul arrived in 2020 with the Wastelanders update, which finally put the RPG on the right track by introducing essential human NPCs and expanded storylines. The game is still being actively played today, and Bethesda continues to publish a steady stream of new content, including the recently released Infestations update.

Our take: I am very excited about a new expansion for Fallout 76, a game I have had faith in from the beginning. I return to this RPG every now and then, and it never disappoints. As such, new content is always very welcome.

Fallout 5 a long-range destination

It might seem like a given, but Bethesda has officially announced that Fallout 5 is part of their long-term roadmap. This is their way of confirming it is coming, while simultaneously managing expectations: it won't be arriving anytime soon. Bethesda is currently prioritizing the development of The Elder Scrolls VI, the long-awaited sequel to Skyrim - a title that first launched in 2011!

Microsoft will likely play a role in attempting to accelerate the development process. Bethesda has explained that their shared technology platform - built post-Starfield - is the engine powering both The Elder Scrolls VI and Fallout 5. This platform enables teams to support multiple complex projects simultaneously with upgraded tools and enhanced rendering systems. This could mean we won't have to wait decades for new installments, but rather 'just a few years'.

Our take: I initially found it strange that Bethesda included Fallout 5 in their roadmap, especially given the premature teaser for The Elder Scrolls VI years ago. However, it makes perfect sense when you consider the current state of the Xbox brand. Microsoft is shifting gears, and Xbox boss Asha Sharma is very openly rolling out a brand reset. While a reorganization is never easy, it could ultimately lead to a positive outcome for the franchise's future.

Fallout becoming a multimedia brand

The excellent Fallout television series on Amazon Prime is officially returning for a third season, which comes as no surprise. The adaptation, starring Ella Purnell and Walton Goggins, is a resounding success. Without spoiling anything: the ending of the second season made a third one feel inevitable. Given that the second season earned ten Emmy nominations, it would have been outright insane not to continue the story.

Furthermore, the franchise is expanding even further: an unscripted Fallout television project is currently in development with Amazon Studios and Kilter Films, the same team behind the hit Fallout TV series. While details regarding this spin-off remain scarce, it may be some time before we see the final product.

Meanwhile, the free-to-play simulation game Fallout Shelter remains a powerhouse. Since its initial release in 2015, it has reached over 250 million registered players worldwide across all platforms and continues to receive new seasons. It remains a massive hit, which perfectly explains why Bethesda continues to support it so actively.

Our take: I didn't expect much from the Fallout TV series initially, so I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the first season. While I personally feel the second season didn’t quite reach the same heights, it remains highly watchable. A new season is more than welcome, and the development of an additional television project - combined with the enduring popularity of Fallout Shelter - proves that the future of the Fallout franchise is brighter than ever. Looking back at my time playing Fallout 1 and 2 years ago, I never would have expected the series to reach this level of cultural prominence.

30th Anniversary

Speaking of my early days with Fallout 1, that journey began all the way back in 1997! Next year marks a major milestone: Bethesda will be celebrating the 30th anniversary of the franchise with a special live event in Washington, D.C. in 2027. While no further details have been revealed, our imaginations are already running wild regarding what could coincide with this landmark birthday.

Our take: Where to begin? 2027 will be a monumental year for Fallout, and I expect Bethesda to have something significant in store that they will try to keep tightly under wraps. Remember Fallout 4, which was announced out of nowhere and released within the same year? While I don't necessarily expect them to pull the same trick next year, it might be the perfect window to release the new Fallout game from Obsidian. Then again, that would imply the developer once again having to produce a major RPG on an incredibly tight schedule. A more far-fetched - but exciting - idea would be a full remaster of the original Fallout game. We can dream.

Bethesda revealed three key updates regarding The Elder Scrolls. While most attention is naturally focused on The Elder Scrolls VI, they shared several other noteworthy insights.

The Elder Scrolls VI is coming

The Elder Scrolls VI was announced back in 2018 with a brief teaser trailer. The open-world RPG has been in pre-production ever since, with Bethesda remaining tight-lipped throughout the process. Some fans even began to worry that the project might never see the light of day, but Bethesda has reassured us that the game is now the studio’s primary development focus.

The team reports that development is exactly where they intended it to be - a claim that is admittedly difficult to process. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim was released in 2011, meaning there will be nearly two decades between the two games by the time the next installment arrives. Even Rockstar Games might frown at such a gap.

The good news is that the team is actively playing the build daily and is highly satisfied with its current trajectory. They reiterate that the next chapter is firmly on the way. Furthermore, with Skyrim having been released on virtually every platform imaginable, there are no remaining ports left to distract the team; the full focus is now on finishing this next installment.

Our take: I am convinced that the team developing The Elder Scrolls VI is behind their original target, especially considering the game was announced eight years ago. It is hard to disconnect the recent structural changes at the Xbox Division from the sudden update that The Elder Scrolls VI is on its way. You get the distinct feeling that Microsoft has finally put its foot down to get the job done. I have no doubt that the game itself will be excellent. While Skyrim was perhaps less deep than previous entries, it was a highly enjoyable RPG and, more importantly, a massive commercial success.

The Elder Scrolls Online alignment

Players looking to scratch their Elder Scrolls itch still have a vast world to explore in The Elder Scrolls Online. The MMO continues to perform well, receiving a steady stream of updates that can sometimes be tricky to keep track of. Looking ahead to 2027, the most notable plan is a return to Skyrim; the developers have promised a region close to the setting of The Elder Scrolls V that has never been explored before in ESO.

The key news here is that Bethesda Game Studios is now partnering closely with ZeniMax Online Studios to align the The Elder Scrolls franchise. This collaboration is designed to ensure consistency between The Elder Scrolls Online and upcoming single-player titles.

Our take: ZeniMax Online Studios has done an excellent job with ESO thus far, and I am curious to see how deep Bethesda Game Studios' involvement will actually go. In my opinion, it would be best to keep the partnership limited to occasional meetings to align roadmaps, rather than full-scale intervention. Ultimately, maintaining consistency across the franchise is not a bad thing, so we should view this as a positive and logical development.

Creation Engine 3 is shared technology

Both Fallout 5 and The Elder Scrolls VI are being built using Creation Engine 3. Bethesda explains that this platform allows their teams to support multiple, complex projects simultaneously through upgraded tools and enhanced rendering systems. In practice, this means teams can work on their own projects while assisting others - perhaps even across different franchises - and developing new features that benefit the entire studio. This level of cross-pollination is standard practice in modern (game) development.

This shared technology platform was developed post-Starfield, meaning it likely emerged after September 2023. Since Starfield utilized Creation Engine 2, it is clear that the original teaser trailer for The Elder Scrolls VI predates this current technology. However, since game development often involves transferring significant amounts of legacy code between engine iterations, this does not mean the team had to start from scratch in 2023 or 2024.

Our take: To be honest, this feels like stating the obvious. It would be highly unusual if teams within the same studio were using the same engine without sharing their knowledge and experience. Furthermore, I am convinced this "new" engine is not a completely clean slate of code. In my experience covering the industry, I have learned that even highly advanced modern engines - such as the Decima Engine used by Guerrilla Games - often contain foundational logic that dates back decades, even if every line of code has since been rewritten. The primary goal of such engines is usually to provide superior development tools that facilitate collaboration, similar to how Hideo Kojima utilized Decima to develop Death Stranding. I expect a similar dynamic at Bethesda; while it is a positive step, it is also a fundamental expectation for a studio of this scale in the modern era.

Starfield is entering its third year as a permanent fixture in the studio's portfolio, now boasting over 17 million players and one billion hours logged.

New content, including Starborn Expansion

While Starfield had a rocky reception at launch, Bethesda has since overhauled the experience, resulting in a significantly more polished and enjoyable RPG. The studio has promised a steady stream of new narratives and gameplay improvements, highlighting that they are currently preparing for the launch of the Starborn expansion next year, which will substantially expand the game's scope.

The Starborn are individuals who have reached the "Unity" - a portal accessible only by collecting all Artifacts in their universe. Passing through the Unity triggers a rebirth in a new universe, a process that can be repeated indefinitely. Each rebirth grants the Starborn greater power; figures like The Hunter claim to have ascended hundreds of times.

Our take: I’m planning to dive back into Starfield soon, as I admittedly drifted away after a few hours at launch. It’s clear the game is in a much better state now, and I’m glad to see Bethesda’s continued commitment to the title. I’m a strong proponent of the modern "living game" approach - where titles are supported long-term to reach their full potential - much like the successful trajectory we’ve seen with Palworld 1.0.

Doubling Down on the Creations Platform

Bethesda is significantly expanding the Creations platform, allowing players to reshape their games with professional-grade content. The Verified Creator Program serves as the successor to the former Creation Club, streamlining the process for creators to release and monetize their work while maintaining a clear distinction between free community mods and premium, quality-assured Creations.

Key Features of the Verified Creator Program

• Monetization: Verified Creators can earn royalties directly from their sold Creations, moving away from the previous contract-developer model.
• Flexible Requirements: Unlike past programs, content no longer requires a game patch for release, allowing for more agile development. Creators also have the freedom to include voice acting and non-lore-friendly content.
• Quality Assurance: To ensure stability, all paid Creations undergo a formal QA verification process by Bethesda.
• Accessibility: While modding experience is highly encouraged, it is not strictly required. Bethesda provides an extensive wiki and tools to help newcomers learn the basics of the Creation Kit.

Examples of Successful Projects

The platform has already hosted a variety of highly regarded projects, ranging from quality-of-life improvements to full-scale, voiced questlines. Notable examples include:

• Kinggath Creations: Widely considered a gold standard, Kinggath’s projects - such as the East Empire Expansion (Skyrim) and Watchtower (Starfield) - are frequently praised for their professional voice acting, complex quest design, and seamless integration into the base game world.
• Quest & Expansion Content:
  • Forgotten Frontiers I & II (Starfield) is frequently recommended for high-quality, lore-friendly exploration.
  • The Veil and Beyond the Veil (Starfield) are noted for being professionally voiced and engaging side quests.
• Gameplay & Immersion Mods:
  • Perks Ascension (Fallout 4) adds significant depth with 85 integrated perks.
  • Tracker’s Alliance (Starfield) is often cited as a standout, providing narrative-rich quests that feel like official DLC.
  • McClarence Outfitters (Starfield) is highly popular for adding both gear and meaningful legendary modding systems.

Our take: This is a master move by Bethesda. Doubling down on this platform - particularly the addition of a royalty-based system - empowers creators to turn their passion into a sustainable endeavor. By embracing the community in such a structured, professional way, Bethesda is fostering a long-term ecosystem that benefits both the developers and the players who want to see their favorite games grow.