Fallout 5: Release Date, Locations & The TV Show Effect
War never changes, but the wait for the next Fallout game feels eternal. Following the massive success of the Amazon Prime TV series, interest in the franchise is at an all-time high. Todd Howard has confirmed that Fallout 5 is Bethesda Game Studios' next major project after The Elder Scrolls VI.
While official details are scarce, industry whispers and Bethesda's history give us a strong indication of where the series is heading.
The Timeline Problem
Here is the hard truth: do not expect Fallout 5 before 2030. With The Elder Scrolls VI projected for a 2027-2028 release, and Bethesda's typical 4-year development cycle, Fallout 5 is a next-generation (PlayStation 6 / Xbox Next) title.
However, Microsoft (Xbox) is rumored to be pushing for a faster turnaround. There is speculation that a support studio (potentially Obsidian Entertainment, creators of New Vegas) could be brought in to develop a spin-off title to fill the gap.
Location Theories
San Francisco (The NCR)
Kellogg's memories in Fallout 4 heavily referenced San Francisco. With the Golden Gate Bridge and the presence of the Shi and NCR, this location offers a rich political landscape distinct from the East Coast Brotherhood of Steel focus.
New York City (The Big Apple)
Documents in previous games mention New York was "gone" after the bombs, implying it was hit the hardest. A Fallout game set in a vertical, skyscraper-dense ruin (like a nuclear 'The Division') would be a massive technical leap for the Creation Engine.
London (International)
While the fan mod Fallout: London explores this, Bethesda has stated they prefer keeping the main series in the USA because "Americana" is a core theme. It is unlikely Fallout 5 will leave American soil.
Engine Upgrades: Creation Engine 3?
Starfield showed the limits of Creation Engine 2. For Fallout 5, we can expect fully seamless open worlds (no loading screens for cities), improved facial animations, and vehicles. The inclusion of functioning cars or motorcycles would fundamentally change exploration, a feature mods have added for years but the base game has lacked.
Comments
Please just give it to Obsidian. We can't wait 10 years.