It’s hard to believe it’s been nine years since Fallout 4 was released. In any other gaming franchise, we’d likely be gearing up for the launch of the next installment by now. However, those who love Bethesda’s signature series are more than familiar with enduring lengthy waits between major releases. Unfortunately, for those eagerly awaiting Fallout 5, that patience is going to be tested even further.
Bethesda has been fairly open about the development status of Fallout 5, confirming that although it’s technically on their radar, it’s not their main focus at the moment. The Elder Scrolls 6 takes center stage, having entered full production back in August 2023. Yet, even then, Xbox head Phil Spencer revealed that Elder Scrolls 6 is still several years away from release. Given that Fallout 5’s full development hasn’t even started due to Bethesda’s commitment to ES6, fans are looking at 2030 as a possible earliest release date. For fans of any other series, this might feel unbearable, but Fallout enthusiasts have plenty of content to keep them engaged during this wait.
### Fallout Fans Have Plenty To Do Before Fallout 5 Arrives
#### Fallout 76 Continues to Expand Its Universe
When Fallout 76 was first launched, it was plagued by numerous bugs and an overwhelming feeling of being unfinished. Fast forward six years, and the game has undergone a phenomenal transformation. Bethesda has rolled out a remarkable 56 major updates, each bringing in features fans had been asking for, along with significant quality-of-life improvements. With its inclusion of voiced NPCs, intricate questlines, exhilarating raids, expeditions, formidable boss battles, and expansive map additions, Fallout 76 is now closer to the multiplayer experience fans envisioned.
The game is still being consistently updated with fresh content, even after six years in the market. The most recent update, “The Gleaming Depths,” introduced an extensive new raid and unveiled four-star legendary weapons. The next update promises to be even more groundbreaking as it will introduce a playable Ghoul character—an exciting first for the franchise.
Scheduled for an early release next year, this update will allow players at level 50 or above to transform their in-game avatars into Ghouls, unlocking 30 exclusive Perk Cards that revolve around this new class’ unique mechanics. This will significantly alter the gameplay dynamic in Fallout 76, offering a fresh experience at no additional cost.
#### Fallout Season 2 Gearing Up
Earlier this year, Amazon’s Fallout series surprised many with its exceptional reception, intertwining the stories of three characters navigating the unpredictable Wasteland. The show impressed both fans and critics with its brilliant fan-service, engaging world-building, superb special effects, and strong character development, earning it the coveted Game Award for Best Adaptation.
In terms of viewer numbers, the series performed exceptionally well, leading Amazon to greenlight a second season just a week after the initial release. Production reportedly commenced in November, with filming expected to conclude by April 2025. While there might be some anticipation before Season 2 hits screens, it promises to be worth it, diving into the widely-loved setting of New Vegas.
### Exploring Fallout 76
For those unacquainted, Fallout 76 offers players the chance to emerge from their vaults and venture into a post-apocalyptic America during Reclamation Day in 2102. Whether journeying solo or teaming up with others, players can expect to engage with quests, build settlements, and face off against the harsh challenges of the Wasteland. This expansive multiplayer extension takes you southward to Skyline Valley, where new mysteries and dangers await, including a new Ghoul type—The Lost.
Released in November 2018, Fallout 76 has carved out a niche in the multiplayer space, maintaining its relevance with continuous updates and improvements. Though it might not be everyone’s cup of tea, its journey from a troubled launch to a thriving community continues to offer an evolving experience in the vast universe of Fallout.
