Table of Contents
Why Is Fallout 5 Taking So Long? The Truth Behind Bethesda’s Timeline
Bethesda’s next post-apocalyptic adventure, Fallout 5, is officially in the works, but fans might need to pack some extra patience. The game is not expected to release until the 2030s, as Bethesda prioritizes The Elder Scrolls VI and ongoing updates for Starfield. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening behind the scenes and why the wait feels endless.
Why is Fallout 5 Delayed?
- Bethesda’s Priorities: The studio has its hands full with The Elder Scrolls VI, which is still in early development and projected for release around 2026 or later. Only after this will Bethesda shift its focus fully to Fallout 5.
- Starfield Commitments: Post-launch expansions like Shattered Space and other updates for Starfield continue to demand resources, further delaying any serious work on Fallout 5.
- Long Development Cycles: Todd Howard, Bethesda’s director, has emphasized that their games take about five years to develop. With Fallout 5 still in its conceptual phase, this timeline pushes its release far into the future.
What We Know About Fallout 5
- Confirmed but Not Active: Bethesda has a “one-pager” for the game—a basic outline of ideas—but no active development has started.
- Next-Gen Focus: Given the timeline, Fallout 5 will likely be designed for next-generation hardware, ensuring cutting-edge graphics and gameplay mechanics.
- Not Held Back by Fallout 76: Despite ongoing updates to Fallout 76, creative director Jon Rush confirmed that this project isn’t slowing down Fallout 5. In fact, it may even enhance anticipation for the new installment.
What Can Fans Do in the Meantime?
While waiting for Fallout 5, there’s plenty to keep fans entertained:
- Fallout 76 Updates: The game has evolved significantly since its rocky launch, with major expansions like “Skyline Valley” and “Gleaming Depths.” A new update will even introduce playable ghouls.
- Prime Video’s Fallout Show: The series has been a hit with fans, offering rich world-building and fan-service moments. A second season is already in production.
- Revisit Fallout 4: A next-gen update for Fallout 4 was released recently, providing enhanced visuals and smoother gameplay.
Why the Delay Might Be Worth It
Bethesda is known for taking its time to deliver expansive, immersive RPGs. By focusing on quality over speed, they aim to ensure that Fallout 5 lives up to its predecessors. As Todd Howard said, “We just want to get it right”.