Bethesda developers, including chief Todd Howard, recently provided an update on the highly anticipated game The Elder Scrolls 6, although they still refrained from announcing a release date. Reflecting on the six-year anniversary of the game’s announcement last June, Howard acknowledged the long wait, stating, “oh wow, that has been a while.” The development is in motion, with Bethesda confirming in August 2023 that the project has entered “early development,” and “early builds” are reportedly available as of March 2024.
In response to rising fan demand for details on The Elder Scrolls 6, Howard indicated that players should expect a longer wait for the game. In a recent interview with GQ to commemorate the Fallout 4 Anniversary Edition, he emphasized that The Elder Scrolls 6 is “still a long way off” and advised fans to practice patience to avoid unnecessary anxiety.
In a more detailed discussion with Game Informer, Howard assured that the game’s progress is promising, noting, “The majority of the studio’s on 6.” He emphasized the importance of overlapping development and lengthy pre-production phases to ensure quality. “We all wish it went a little bit faster — or a lot faster — but it’s a process that we want to get right,” he remarked.
Studio design director Emil Pagliarulo echoed Howard’s sentiments, highlighting the successful delays of other major title releases, such as GTA 6, as a strategy that pays off. He questioned what fans truly desire— a rushed game that falls short or a well-crafted final product. “So, we’re going to take our time and as long as it needs to be great,” he stated.
Additionally, studio director Angela Browder spoke about the exciting technological advancements that will contribute to making The Elder Scrolls 6 a remarkable addition to the franchise. She described the game as an “endless set of possibilities,” emphasizing the excitement it brings to developers and fans alike.
Despite the positive development updates, fans continue to eagerly await a specific release window, and some have even speculated about hidden hints in marketing materials, such as a live-action Skyrim trailer. The anticipation weighs heavy, especially as the announcement of The Elder Scrolls 6 has now become as old as Skyrim was at the time it was revealed.
Howard acknowledged the lengthy timeline, but he teased the potential for unexpected announcements, similar to a possible shadowdrop for a remastered version of The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion. He expressed a preference for surprise releases, suggesting that the game might just appear one day without prior warning.
Earlier this year, it was confirmed that The Elder Scrolls 6 would include a character designed in memory of a devoted fan following a successful charity campaign that raised over $85,000 for Make-A-Wish.
Overall, while the wait for The Elder Scrolls 6 continues, Bethesda’s commitment to delivering a quality game is evident, inviting hopeful anticipation among the gaming community.