Elder Scrolls 6 to Bring Back Classic Style, Todd Howard Says

The Elder Scrolls 6 is returning to its classic style, using the new Creation Engine 3. Over 250 people are working on it, many from the original Skyrim team.
By Newsroom | Gaming, Video Games |

Recent statements from Bethesda's Todd Howard, studio head and creative director, offer a look into the development of The Elder Scrolls 6. Howard's remarks suggest the game aims to re-establish the studio's "classic style," a move intended to satisfy long-time fans of the franchise. While specific details remain undisclosed, the core message indicates a deliberate shift back towards the design principles that defined earlier titles like The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.

The Elder Scrolls 6's new update will make fans happy - 1

Core Development Focus and Engine

The Elder Scrolls 6 is a primary focus for a significant portion of Bethesda Game Studios. Howard indicated that a large team, exceeding 250 individuals, is actively working on the project. A notable aspect of this team includes personnel who contributed to previous Elder Scrolls titles.

The Elder Scrolls 6's new update will make fans happy - 2

  • Creation Engine 3: Howard confirmed that The Elder Scrolls 6 will utilize Creation Engine 3. This is the newest version of Bethesda's proprietary game engine, an evolution of the technology used for Starfield and previous games.

Reaffirming the "Classic Style"

A recurring theme in the recent updates is the commitment to a "classic Bethesda style." This is presented as a conscious decision following recent projects, suggesting a departure from the creative directions taken with Fallout 76 and Starfield.

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The Elder Scrolls 6's new update will make fans happy - 3

  • Distinction from Recent Titles: Howard's comments imply that The Elder Scrolls 6 will actively move away from the design paths of Fallout 76 and Starfield, which are described as having taken "creative detours."

  • Fan Expectation: The emphasis on a return to a familiar style is directly linked to appeasing fans who associate the Elder Scrolls series with its established gameplay and design elements.

Development Timeline and Transparency

Official communication regarding The Elder Scrolls 6 has been limited, leading to considerable speculation. Howard has acknowledged the lengthy wait for new information, while still refraining from providing a definitive release date, stating only that it is "not this week."

The Elder Scrolls 6's new update will make fans happy - 4

  • Absence of Release Date: Despite the updates, no specific release timeframe has been announced.

  • Studio Dedication: The extensive resources allocated to the project suggest a long-term development cycle.

Team Continuity and Experience

A point of emphasis in the recent updates is the continuity of the development team. Howard stated that a substantial number of the original developers responsible for Skyrim are still part of Bethesda.

  • Experienced Personnel: The presence of individuals who worked on earlier, successful Elder Scrolls titles is highlighted as a potential benefit to the new game's development.

  • Implication for Quality: This continuity is presented as a factor that could contribute to the game's alignment with fan expectations and the series' established legacy.

Expert Analysis

While specific expert commentary directly quoting third parties on these recent updates is not present in the provided data, the consistent reporting across multiple outlets from Todd Howard's interview indicates a clear message being communicated by Bethesda. The focus on a "classic style" and the use of Creation Engine 3 are the central factual takeaways. The implication that this approach will "make fans happy" is a stated intention by Howard, rather than an independent assessment.

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Conclusion

Recent statements from Todd Howard outline The Elder Scrolls 6's development direction. The core assertion is a return to the "classic style" of Bethesda RPGs, leveraging Creation Engine 3 and the experience of a team that includes many individuals involved in Skyrim. While a release date remains elusive, the studio's intent is to recapture the essence of what has made the Elder Scrolls franchise popular, aiming to satisfy long-term fans after what are described as creative explorations in Fallout 76 and Starfield. The significant allocation of studio resources to this project underscores its importance to Bethesda.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the main goal for The Elder Scrolls 6's design?
Todd Howard said The Elder Scrolls 6 will go back to the 'classic Bethesda style'. This means it will feel more like older games in the series, like Skyrim, and less like recent games such as Fallout 76 or Starfield.
Q: Who is working on The Elder Scrolls 6?
A large team of over 250 people is working on the game. Many of these developers also worked on The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, bringing their experience to the new project.
Q: What game engine will The Elder Scrolls 6 use?
The game will use Creation Engine 3, which is the newest version of Bethesda's own game engine. This is the same engine technology that was used for Starfield.
Q: When will The Elder Scrolls 6 be released?
Bethesda has not announced a specific release date for The Elder Scrolls 6. Todd Howard mentioned that the game is still in development and is not coming out soon.
Q: Why is Bethesda focusing on a 'classic style' for The Elder Scrolls 6?
Todd Howard believes returning to the classic style will make long-time fans happy. This is a deliberate choice after the studio explored different creative directions with Fallout 76 and Starfield.