Bethesda Game Studios: Starfield and the future of The Elder Scrolls VI

In brief

• Kurt Kuhlmann, a Bethesda veteran, reveals that Todd Howard shifted the studio’s focus to Starfield.
• Despite fans’ high expectations, there was no direct development of The Elder Scrolls VI.
• Kuhlmann says he would have preferred working on The Elder Scrolls VI rather than Fallout 76 or Starfield.

GAME-scanner analysis

Kurt Kuhlmann’s revelations shed new light on decision-making inside Bethesda Game Studios. It’s clear that Todd Howard, a key figure at the studio, influenced the team’s direction by making Starfield the priority. That raises questions about the internal dynamics and the trade-offs involved, especially given the huge expectations fans have for The Elder Scrolls VI. Kuhlmann’s preference for The Elder Scrolls VI over other projects may also point to broader dissatisfaction within the studio about the direction of its future titles.

What does this mean for players?

For players, it means the development of beloved franchises like The Elder Scrolls VI may take even longer. The focus on Starfield could bring both opportunities and risks; while new IP such as Starfield can feel refreshing, the question remains whether Bethesda can meet the expectations built around The Elder Scrolls VI. Fans will have to wait and see how these internal choices affect Bethesda’s future releases.