In 2024, Bethesda has experienced a notable upswing in popularity, largely driven by the success of the TV adaptation of their Fallout video game series. The renewed interest has been accompanied by the greenlighting of a second season for the Fallout show, sparking heightened anticipation for the next mainline game in the franchise, Fallout 5.
Despite this excitement, Todd Howard from Bethesda has emphasized that the company is not rushing into the development of Fallout 5. In an interview with MrMattyPlays, Howard underscored the importance of taking the necessary time to deliver a high-quality product that resonates with fans.
Howard acknowledged the enduring popularity of Fallout 76, highlighting ongoing DLC releases as part of Bethesda’s strategy to revitalize the Fallout franchise. He expressed an understanding of fans’ desire for a new single-player experience, affirming that such endeavors require careful planning and development to ensure they meet the high expectations set by past installments.
Howard stressed that Bethesda aims for each release within their franchises, whether Fallout, Elder Scrolls, or Starfield, to be meaningful and impactful for players.
Looking ahead, Bethesda has confirmed plans for future Fallout games, though Howard indicated in a previous interview that these projects are anticipated to take approximately five years to materialize.
Contrary to some hopes, Bethesda currently has no immediate plans to bring modernized versions of Fallout 1 and 2 to consoles. Meanwhile, the company is focusing on Starfield, promising annual expansions to enrich the game’s narrative and universe. The first major expansion, titled Shattered Space, is slated for release later in the year.
In June, Bethesda rolled out a substantial update for Starfield, introducing new missions and gameplay mechanics, such as a bounty-scanning system. However, the introduction of paid Track Alliance missions has sparked some criticism among players despite the broader accessibility provided by opening the Starfield Creation Kit to all modders.
Looking forward, Bethesda remains committed to expanding and enhancing both the Fallout and Starfield franchises, aiming to deliver immersive experiences that resonate deeply with their dedicated fanbase.
