Along with reporting that the teaser site is not leading to a shadow drop for a new Fallout game (much less a remaster), he revealed that the remaster is coming “eventually.” Interestingly, Corden added, “as well as Fallout: New Vegas on top,” which wouldn’t be surprising given the focus of Fallout Season 2.

And while it’s unknown if one of them could be a new Fallout, there are apparently four new projects in the works at Obsidian Entertainment, “some big, some small.” He also reiterated that Fallout 5 has allegedly been greenlit, and while a teaser at an upcoming showcase isn’t out of the question, it’s got a long way to go.

Of course, this is all leading up to the next Xbox Developer_Direct, scheduled for later this month. Microsoft didn’t confirm what would be shown, simply noting that Playground Games would be present. However, Corden says it’s “highly likely” that Fable and Forza Horizon 6, alongside Gears of War: E-Day and Halo: Campaign Evolved (allegedly referred to internally as the “four horsemen) could appear.

The situation is further exacerbated by a new multi-platform approach to Xbox titles, with the ROG Xbox Ally’s announcement fuelling speculation that the legendary console as we know it might fade away into the sunset in the coming years. Despite Microsoft joining hands with AMD, and the confirmation of at least one more generation of Xbox as a result, things may not be as great as Microsoft would hope as far as its Xbox gaming division is concerned.

It’s a bleak future that could disappoint fans of the console’s many first party titles, which include legends like Halo, Gears of War, The Elder Scrolls, and Fallout. However, Fallout fans might not be feeling the pinch as much as others in this situation, if recent reports about new additions to the franchise are any indication.

The Xbox’s New Road

With an emphasis on the ‘Xbox Anywhere’ tagline, Microsoft’s approach to its gaming division’s approach to exclusive first-party titles seems to be evolving in line with its CEO Phil Spencer’s assertion that the company remains open to its first-party titles being at the frontline of its multi-platform approach back in 2024.

That ties in well with the launch of the ROG XBox Ally, as it is an AMD-powered system that runs Windows with an Xbox UI overlay, and can, in theory, download games from other storefronts like Steam and Epic Games. News of its multi-year collaboration with AMD to create chips for its gaming devices suggests that while the Xbox will continue to be present in modern gaming, it may not rely on console-exclusive titles to retain its position.

Coupled with Microsoft’s insistence on the viability of Game Pass, and the manner in which the subscription service continues to be a safe haven for new developers, the company’s multi-platform approach to gaming might be a new standard for Xbox as the years go on. It could spell the evolution of what used to be a console that was the only option to play a few excellent titles to a platform that gives its players a lot of choices as to how they play their games, and with whom they play them.

And yet, despite all of this uncertainty about what the future holds for the Xbox, it seems that Bethesda Game Studios is going full steam ahead with upcoming additions to the Fallout franchise in what is sure to be great news for its fans. 

A Gift That Keeps on Giving

Appearing on the Friends per Second podcast, VGC staff writer Jordan Middler teased multiple Fallout related projects in development over at Bethesda, including one that he believed would have many long-term fans of the franchise very delighted indeed.

The timing of these projects is quite opportune, considering how the franchise received a lot of positive attention from Amazon Prime’s excellent live-action adaptation, bringing it to the screens of audiences who may not have played the games as a showcase of its quirky yet insightful examinations of complex themes like corporate greed and human empathy in a world in which survival comes at a heavy price.

There is speculation, and perhaps hope among the franchise’s players, that one of these projects is a remaster of Fallout 3, a game that made its debut back in 2008 on the Xbox 360, PS3, and Windows. Its popularity is now the stuff of legends, and a remaster of the game has long been the focus of rumors and leaks, Middler’s latest statement notwithstanding.

For Bethesda, such a remaster would make sense, allowing a new generation of players to enjoy one of its most popular titles in the same way that The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered brought another one of its classics back into the fold on current-gen systems.

The studio could even consider a complete package that brings Fallout 3 and New Vegas together into a single title with updated visuals and quality of life changes that make the most of the raw power that current-gen systems are capable of, making it an experience that brings nostalgia and improvements in equal measures.

Although all of this is speculation at this point in time, Fallout players would eagerly lap up any new additions to the franchise considering that it’s been nearly a decade since Fallout 4 hit the shelves. However, reports suggesting that there could be good news on that front could very well have fans of the franchise leaping for joy.

When One Door Closes, Another Opens

Microsoft’s decision to shut down Zenimax Online’s MMO codenamed Blackbird might have been bad news for players looking forward to the next IP from the makers of Elder Scrolls Online. It’s always saddening to see ambitious projects vanish into the ether and the consequent news of layoffs that follow such cancellations, after all.

However, all of the resources that were being directed towards Blackbird may now be diverted to development of Fallout 5, with Windows Central executive editor Jez Corden’s appearance on the Xbox Two Podcast more or less confirming that the project has been greenlit over at Xbox. However, Bethesda’s current projects that include The Elder Scrolls VI and more DLC for Starfield may not allow the studio to return to the helm of this sequel.

While that may be off-putting to more than a few fans of the franchise, it could also mean that other talented studios get a shot at recreating the magic that Fallout games are known for, perhaps even adding touches of their own that could elevate the franchise to new heights. It could also be a project that allows Microsoft to avoid more layoffs and closures if it chooses another studio to take on a project that carries a lot of potential.

Another factor that could spell good news is the announcement of a third season of Prime’s TV show, ahead of the December 2025 premiere of Fallout’s second season which is all set to continue the exciting story it established in the first season, bringing faces old and new to a season that is primed to be as exciting as the first one.

Depending on the success of the show’s next couple of outings, a new Fallout game could benefit greatly from establishing continuity between the show and the game, making for an experience that bridges the gap between the show’s interpretation of past titles with a game that draws from it directly. Of course, the studio helming the new game could choose to go in a different direction if the story they wish to tell does not coincide with the show’s narrative.

While all of this is just speculation based on reports with no official confirmation at the time of writing this article, Fallout’s fans might be wary of getting their hopes up for either a remaster of Fallout 3 or a new addition to the franchise. However, it does make sense for Xbox to take either one or both of these projects forward, making Fallout a solid pillar to support a new strategy for its games.

It’s an opportunity that Microsoft would be remiss to pass up considering how the gaming world has sorely missed one of its most stellar takes on a post-apocalyptic world. Whatever the future holds for Xbox, betting on one of its best performers is sure to be a decision that could galvanize its plans for the future in both the short and long term. 

For now, as fans of Fallout ourselves, it’s time to wait patiently with our fingers crossed and hope all of the rumors are true.

Note: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of, and should not be attributed to, GamingBolt as an organization.

“There are multiple Fallout projects in development, including, as far as I’m aware, that one you’re all wanting,” said Middler. “But it’s not far enough along to say anything that is like, ‘You’re going to be playing this game anytime soon’.’”

Middler also spoke about how he is surprised that Microsoft hasn’t officially announced anything related to a mainline Fallout sequel since it acquired Bethesda back in 2021. He goes on to say how “Fallout 5 should have been day one, ‘Okay, we own these, now let’s get a game that says Fallout 5 on it out on the shelves. And they didn’t bother.”

While the “multiple Fallout projects” could mean anything from expansions for Fallout 76 to new smartphone games or updates to Fallout Shelter, when Middler said that work is going on on the “one you’re all wanting,” as well as his comments about a Fallout 5, he was likely referring to the long-rumoured Fallout 3 remaster.

The remaster still being not far enough along for a proper announcement shouldn’t come as a big surprise, however, considering just how old the original release is. Back in April, former Bethesda developer Bruce Nesmith spoke about how a remaster or remake of Fallout 3 would need a revamp of the game’s gunplay.

“What did you see in Fallout 4? That will tell you what they felt was necessary to change from Fallout 3,” Nesmith said. “I know in Fallout 4 there was a lot of work done on the gun combat because Fallout 3 is the first time they ever tried to do a shooter-style game. And, well, I think the work that was done was amazing.”

He went on to talk about how the combat in Fallout 3 was “not good”, and heavy revisions would be needed for the gameplay systems to feel good in the modern day. He even brought up comparisons with other shooters of the time, including Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, Dead Space and Gears of War 2, to talk about how Fallout 3’s gun combat didn’t even hold up to its contemporaries.

“[Fallout 3 combat] didn’t hold up to shooters at the time,” Nesmith explained. “Also, it’s an RPG shooter, it’s not a run-and-gun shooter. But a lot of work was done on that for Fallout 4. So I anticipate seeing a lot of that work go into it, assuming they’re doing the same thing.”

Bethesda has currently made no new announcements regarding the Fallout franchise. However, the company did confirm back in June that Fallout 76 had reached 23 million players.

Valve’s Deadlock

Between gameplay, hero designs, and alleged invites for a test, it’s almost like Valve’s Deadlock is due for a reveal soon. Any new title from the House of Half-Life is worth noting, though this is allegedly more of a 6v6 hero shooter with MOBA elements. As with Dota 2, you farm mobs for currency and buy items to strengthen your hero while fighting the enemy team. It’s intriguing, but with Insider Gaming reporting development being in the alpha stage, it may be a while before launch.

Sonic Frontiers 2

Following the success of Sonic Frontiers, Sonic Team head Takashi Iizuka reiterated that it would serve as the “cornerstone” for future titles. Fortunately, a sequel seems to be the course for Sega, with insider Daniel Richtman reporting that it is indeed in the works. Potential announcement this year, followed by a launch in late 2025? It could happen.

Fallout 3 Remaster

A remaster for Fallout 3 found in Microsoft’s document to the FTC. There haven’t been too many other reports regarding this, and since the document is from 2020, plans could have changed. A remaster for The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion was also specified, with rumors from last year indicating it’s in development at Virtuos, so that may have taken priority. Considering this was Bethesda’s first Fallout title and superior to Fallout 4 in several ways, a remaster with quality-of-life features and improved gunplay would be ideal.

Dishonored 3

Yet another title listed in Microsoft’s leaked document, Dishonored 3 may be less likely than the others. Arkane Lyon is busy with Marvel’s Blade, and Arkane Austin has shut down. The latter was reportedly pitching for a new title in the Dishonored series, but it’s unknown if this may have been Dishonored 3. As long as Arkane Lyon exists, there’s always a possibility, but again, it may be a long way off.

Project Shaolin

In development at Brass Lion Entertainment, the rumored Project Shaolin is based on the Wu-Tang Clan. It’s allegedly an “anime-inspired” third-person action RPG with melee combat, an “extensive loot system” and four-player co-op support. Of course, the group is also composing the soundtrack, but there have been few follow-up reports, let alone an official announcement. Better late than never, though, and the Xbox Games Showcase could be the ideal place for a reveal.

Next Killer Instinct

Yet another rumor gathering dust since October 2021 is the next Killer Instinct, initially reported by Xbox Era’s Nick Baker. Windows Central’s Jez Corden also heard the “vaguest of unsubstantiated rumors” that one of Bandai Namco’s fighting game teams is involved, though he couldn’t verify the same. Iron Galaxy did return to update Killer Instinct (2013), adding 4K support on Xbox Series X/S, ranked crossplay and extensive rebalancing for characters, but there hasn’t been official word on a sequel.

DOOM: The Dark Ages

There’s been a distinct lack of DOOM since 2020, but id Software will seemingly address this very soon. Found in a Microsoft document during its trial with the FTC as DOOM Year Zero, the title is allegedly called DOOM: The Dark Ages and set in a “medieval-inspired Doom world.” An announcement is seemingly inbound at the Xbox Games Showcase on June 9th, with insider NateTheHate noting a PS5 release alongside Xbox Series X/S and PC.

Gears of War Remastered Collection

One of the longer-running rumors on this list is a remastered compilation of Gears of War 1 to 3. XboxEra co-founder first hinted at its existence in 2022, suggesting it’s getting the “Master Chief Collection” treatment. While no announcement occurred, Baker indicated it was still happening in January 2023, with Jez Corden of Windows Central and The Verge’s Tom Warren seemingly backing him. Naturally, there was no announcement last year. With Gears 6 highly rumored for this year’s showcase, could the remastered collection potentially surface? Here’s hoping.

Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag Remake

Rumored last year by Kotaku, a remake of Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag is allegedly in the works. Plans were in the “earliest stages”, but it seems they’ve advanced further, as Insider Gaming reported it as codename Obsidian, one of the many upcoming Assassin’s Creed titles. It may be a while before its existence is even acknowledged, but if you’re going to remake a title in the franchise, it’s hard to go wrong with Black Flag.

Marvel’s Venom

A game that was revealed through an unfortunate ransomware attack on Insomniac, though in all honesty, it’s not out of left field. Insomniac said it would listen to fans regarding a potential Venom title (the mechanics in Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 also lent credence to the same). According to reports by various publications, it will be a shorter experience, akin to Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales. “When” it will be announced is an entirely different question, but it wouldn’t be surprising if news arrived later this year.

Marvel’s Spider-Man 3

After the conclusion of Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, a third title seems likely, and in all honesty, this is a given. After millions of copies sold, why wouldn’t they be developing a sequel? Maybe a Logan cameo is on the cards, especially since they take place in the same universe. Who knows? Time will tell, as always.

Marvel’s X-Men

After some really good X-Men games on the PS2 followed by Wolverine Origins on 7^th gen consoles, there has hardly been any great X-Men game. The series has been severely unrepresented in the MCU over the years (which is admittedly improving). Nevertheless, potentially playing as Cyclops, Wolverine, Jean Gray, Rogue, Nightcrawler and more on a single team sounds fun, especially if it supports co-op. As reported by many publications, it’s rumored to be in development and will likely be a PlayStation exclusive.

Resident Evil 9

The back and forth on Resident Evil 9 rumors has been interesting to witness over the past several days. Initially, insider Dusk Golem reported an internal delay. Then it changed to an imminent reveal and release in January 2025. This changed again to no announcement in the Summer and a delay in late 2025 or 2026. It’s still worth looking forward to, but the reveal may be much further off than initially believed.

Resident Evil Zero Remake

Remember when rumors circulated about five Resident Evil titles currently in the works, which included a Resident Evil 1 remake? That’s allegedly not happening, per Dusk Golem. Instead, Resident Evil Zero is reportedly getting one. There’s some skepticism after the whole Resident Evil 9 flip-flopping. Thankfully VGC’s Andy Robinson and IGN corroborated the claims, so these remakes are looking more than likely.

Resident Evil – Code: Veronica Remake

A remake for Resident Evil – Code: Veronica is also allegedly in the works. There’s not much to add, aside from IGN and VGC corroborating its development, but after years of hoping, it’s good to hear some indication that a remake is coming.

Speaking during a recent interview with Kinda Funny Games, whilst on the top of the general long-term roadmap Bethesda currently has in mind for the Fallout franchise, Bethesda Game Studios’ Todd Howard mentioned things such as the aforementioned show’s second season, mobile title Fallout Shelter, and the ongoing updates for Fallout 76. Alongside those, interestingly enough, Howard also seemed to mentioned two unspecified, unannounced projects.

“We look at what we are doing with the [Fallout] franchise and then we say do we still feel good about — I can’t reveal it now — but here is our runway for Fallout as a franchise,” he said (via IGN). “When is Season 2 happening? What are we doing on mobile? What are we doing in [Fallout 76]? What are we doing with this thing? What are we doing with this other thing? And when are these landing? And again if I could snap my fingers and have them all be out and ready I would. But the main thing is, how do we deliver these at a high quality level? That is always most important.”

We do know, of course, that some early work has already happened on Fallout 5, which will be the next game that Bethesda Game Studios develops after The Elder Scrolls 6 is out of the way (however many years into the future that is). Then again, journalist Jez Corden recently claimed that Microsoft was looking into ways to fast-track that process, so maybe things could change.

Interestingly enough, internal Microsoft documents that leaked last year suggested that a remaster of Fallout 3 was also in the works. With the documents being from 2020, however, there’s no concrete word out there on whether the purported remaster is still in the pipeline.

It was spotted by Resetera user Madjoki, and references Project Hibiki (likely Hi-Fi Rush), Starfield and Redfall for release in fiscal year 2021, while MachineGames’ Indiana Jones was slated for FY22. Since the document is from 2020 and at least two titles faced delays while Indiana Jones wasn’t released by March 31st, 2023, the other release windows are likely outdated. Case in point is The Elder Scrolls 6 for the fiscal year 2024, while Spencer recently felt it was still more than five years away.

However, the other titles are interesting, like remasters of The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion (which aligns with recent leaks) and Fallout 3, DOOM Year Zero (with DLC) and Dishonored 3. A sequel to Ghostwire: Tokyo and two projects with codenames, Project Kestrel and Project Platinum, along with a licensed IP game, were also noted. None of these projects are officially confirmed.

Whether Microsoft will address this leak remains to be seen, so stay tuned.