During a recent livestream with Kinda Funny Games, Todd Howard discussed the development of The Elder Scrolls VI, emphasizing a return to the open-world RPG style that has defined Bethesda’s most popular titles. Howard acknowledged that previous projects, such as Starfield and Fallout 76, represented departures from the classic format. For Elder Scrolls 6, the studio aims to refocus on the kind of gameplay that allows players to explore expansive worlds and engage with them in meaningful ways.
Howard described this shift as a return to a style that both the team and fans are familiar with, while still leaving room for innovation. He highlighted that the development team is exploring ways to make each new game world feel fresh and engaging without losing the foundational elements that define a Bethesda RPG.
The Role of Creation Engine 3
A significant part of Elder Scrolls 6’s development involves the updated Creation Engine 3, the latest iteration of Bethesda’s proprietary technology. According to Howard, the studio has spent several years refining the engine, building on the version used in Starfield. Creation Engine 3 is expected to provide greater flexibility in world design, improved systems, and enhanced gameplay mechanics. This technical upgrade is designed to support both Elder Scrolls 6 and future Bethesda titles, reflecting a long-term investment in the studio’s development infrastructure.
Development Status and Timeline
Howard indicated that development is progressing steadily and that the team is approaching a major internal milestone. Despite this progress, he confirmed that the release is still some time away. The project, originally announced over six years ago, has involved extensive work on both the engine and the design systems, contributing to the extended development period. While Howard did not provide a concrete release date, he emphasized that the team is focused on ensuring the game meets the studio’s standards before it becomes available to players.
Implications for Players
The combination of a return to traditional RPG design and a modernized engine suggests that Elder Scrolls 6 will prioritize exploration and player freedom, hallmarks of the series. Players can expect a familiar style of gameplay with opportunities for new experiences made possible by technological enhancements. The emphasis on both revisiting the series’ roots and incorporating innovation indicates that the title aims to balance nostalgia with fresh elements.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When was Elder Scrolls 6 announced?
The game was announced over six years ago, though specific release details remain limited.
What engine is Elder Scrolls 6 using?
The game is being developed using Creation Engine 3, the latest iteration of Bethesda’s internal technology.
Is Elder Scrolls 6 similar to Starfield or Fallout 76?
While those games represented creative departures, Elder Scrolls 6 is designed to return to the classic open-world RPG format that the series is known for.
Has a release date been announced?
No official release date has been provided. The development team is still working toward major milestones.
What can players expect from the gameplay?
Players can expect an open-world RPG experience emphasizing exploration, world interaction, and the familiar design elements that have defined Bethesda’s past RPGs.
Will Creation Engine 3 improve graphics and mechanics?
Yes, the updated engine is intended to enhance world design, gameplay systems, and overall technical performance, providing a foundation for both Elder Scrolls 6 and future Bethesda titles.
