In recent discussions about Bethesda’s future projects, Todd Howard emphasized that while anticipation builds for The Elder Scrolls 6, the studio is currently focusing heavily on the Fallout franchise. With Fallout Season 2 premiere set for this month on Prime Video and a new Fallout: New Vegas bundle in the works, excitement is palpable among fans, though no updates regarding a remaster or a sequel to Fallout: New Vegas were revealed.
Notably absent from the recent Fallout Day broadcast was any mention of a New Vegas remaster, despite calls from fans and public figures alike, including actor Danny Trejo. The broadcast instead offered no new Fallout games announcements, raising questions about the direction of the franchise during this period of renewed interest.
Rumors concerning potential Fallout remakes are circulating, especially following the release of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered. Previously leaked plans for a Fallout 3 Remastered have seemingly shifted, although Bethesda remains committed to eventually developing Fallout 5 after The Elder Scrolls 6 is completed. The last substantial update on Fallout 5 came in June 2024, where Howard reiterated that he does not want to rush the project.
In a recent interview with IGN, Howard addressed the impact of the successful Fallout TV series on game development. He clarified that the show’s popularity has not altered Bethesda’s game plans, as the company already had a structured approach to its future Fallout titles. Howard described the TV series as an alternative lens into the expansive Fallout universe, allowing for renewed interest in existing games. He noted that record player counts in Fallout 4 and ongoing engagement with Fallout 76—through regular updates such as the recent Burning Springs expansion—indicate a thriving audience eager for more content.
When questioned about potential collaborations with Xbox studios like Obsidian and inXile for future Fallout projects, Howard maintained a discreet stance. He mentioned a long-term strategy for the Fallout franchise, sparking curiosity about what this may entail.
The success of Oblivion Remastered, with over 4 million players engaging with the game since its unexpected release, led to inquiries about whether a similar approach could be taken for Fallout 3. Howard praised the reception of the remaster and expressed a desire to preserve the surprise element of game announcements, while hinting at possible opportunistic releases in the future.
With Fallout 4 having launched back in 2015 and followed by the multiplayer Fallout 76 in 2018, fans await more than just remasters or expansions. The revival of interest spurred by the recent TV adaptation places Bethesda in a prime position to re-engage its audience, as they navigate the intricate balance of developing new titles in both the Fallout and Elder Scrolls franchises. The anticipation surrounding future Fallout announcements is palpable, leaving fans eager for what lies ahead in this iconic universe.
