Despite initial dissent over Microsoft’s acquisition of Bethesda Game Studios, there appears to be common gladness now. This is largely due to Starfield, which has all the makings of one of the finest RPGs ever. It is 2023’s most important Xbox-exclusive game, so the pressure is on. Though our discussions are currently consumed with the anticipated space adventure, we haven’t lost sight of other upcoming Bethesda games as well.
Bethesda, creators of iconic universes such as Fallout and The Elder Scrolls over the past quarter-century, has a very promising future. With Starfield, they seem set to surpass their own formidable standards. If the game lives up to expectations, it heightens our anticipation for releases planned for 2025 and beyond. Let’s delve into all the new Bethesda games that will be available on Game Pass from day one at no additional cost.
Related: 5 Best Xbox Game Studios Microsoft Owns
1. Starfield
The comprehensive 45-minute gameplay video from Starfield Direct has managed to amplify our anticipation for the game exponentially. Bethesda wasn’t exaggerating when they claimed it was the largest game they’ve ever created. With over 1000 planets, intricate skill trees, an expansive character creation platform and a plethora of diverse role-playing mechanics, Starfield genuinely appears impressive.
Initial impressions painted it as a mere No Man’s Sky imitator when it was first unveiled. However, as more details emerged, it became clear that Starfield is quintessentially a Bethesda game. It’s distinct from any universe we’ve encountered thus far, yet the hallmark Bethesda RPG spirit is discernible in every aspect of it.
Given that it’s the only game among the upcoming Bethesda games for which we currently have a release date, it is quite a hot topic. Time will tell whether this promising space RPG lives up to our expectations upon release. Before the game releases, you may want to check out the system requirements and prepare your computer accordingly.
Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
Release Date: September 6, 2023
Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X|S
Related: Does Starfield Have Multiplayer?
2. The Elder Scrolls 6
We often find ourselves drawing comparisons between The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim and Grand Theft Auto V. While they don’t share the same genre, they both have an enduring appeal that keeps players engaged even after a decade of their release. The continued success of Rockstar Games is easily attributable to GTA Online, but Bethesda’s achievement with Skyrim is worthy of commendation in its own right.
Shifting the focus to the future of this remarkable series, The Elder Scrolls 6 was initially introduced in 2018 via a brief teaser video. Little has been divulged since then. As it stands in 2023, this fantasy RPG is still in the early stages of development, making it unlikely for a gameplay video to emerge any time soon.
However, the buzz around Bethesda at present revolves entirely around Starfield. Therefore, while it’s intriguing to discuss upcoming Bethesda games, TES6 still has a substantial journey ahead. If it debuts by 2025, that would indeed be quite a surprise.
Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
Release Date: Not Announced (2025 and beyond)
Platforms: Not Announced
Related: Famitsu Perfect Scores: Which Games on the List?
3. Fallout 5
If you’re a fan of Bethesda games, it’s highly likely that you hold a soft spot for at least one title from the Fallout series. With its depiction of a post-apocalyptic world, the series has established one of the most iconic universes in gaming history. It’s unique storytelling and distinct visual style set it apart from other games.
Among upcoming Bethesda games, Fallout 5 is likely to be the last one we’ll encounter. This conclusion is drawn directly from the pronouncements of Todd Howard. In a 2022 interview, Todd revealed that Fallout 5’s development would commence after the completion of The Elder Scrolls 6. Barring any unprecedented developments, this suggests that our next brush with the apocalypse in gaming form won’t occur until 2028 or later.
As one might anticipate, details about the game are sparse at this stage. What is known is that somewhere within the confines of Bethesda’s headquarters (Or perhaps in Todd’s personal diary), there exists a single-page summary of the fifth game’s storyline. Who knows, this concise narrative overview could be the seed from which the greatest game of all time grows.
Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
Release Date: Not Announced (2028 and beyond)
Platforms: Not Announced
Related: How to Wait in Fallout 4?
That’s all we have to say about the new games developed by Bethesda Game Studios. We will make a different list of new games from other studios (Like Machine Games) within Bethesda.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Starfield an AAA Game?
Yes, Starfield is the symbol of an AAA game. Simply being touted as Bethesda’s most extensive project in a quarter of a century confirms this. Considering its hefty budget and the breadth of its in-game universe, it’s evident that few role-playing games can rival Starfield’s magnitude. Additionally, this depth will be paired with next-generation graphics, a hallmark of an AAA game.
Will Starfield Be Like Skyrim?
Given that Skyrim was released in 2011, one can safely assume that many of its mechanics may not be proper today. However, this does not imply that Starfield will bear no resemblance to Skyrim. Bethesda’s distinct ethos and style will undeniably permeate Starfield. It’s highly likely that uncovering a new planet will incite the same thrill as stumbling upon a new village in Skyrim.
Is Bethesda Getting a New Engine?
Yes, Bethesda unveiled a new game engine in 2021: Creation Engine 2. This next-generation engine is making its debut in Starfield. From the gameplay footage currently available, one can appreciate how seamlessly the game operates. Upgraded iterations of this engine will presumably be utilised in upcoming Bethesda games as well.
Author Profile
- My journey into the world of video games began at four, when I was first introduced to arcade machines in 1996. Over the past decades, I've been fortunate enough to witness the incredible evolution of gaming, as it has grown from a niche hobby to a thriving art. Today, I'm dedicated to creating content that celebrates all genres of games. We will talk about them at Player.me.
