Rumors Surrounding Three New Fallout Games, Including a Fallout 3 Remake: What We Know So Far

The Fallout franchise has been a cornerstone of the gaming world for decades, captivating players with its post-apocalyptic storytelling and immersive open-world gameplay. Recently, the gaming community has been buzzing with rumors about not one, but three new Fallout projects, including a highly anticipated Fallout 3 remake. These rumors, fueled by credible industry insiders and leaked documents, have sparked excitement and speculation among fans. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of these rumors, explore why they make sense, and break down what each of the three projects could entail.

The Fallout Rumors: What’s Being Said About New Fallout Games?

The latest wave of Fallout rumors stems from multiple sources, including a podcast by journalist Jordan Middler on the Friends Per Second podcast and posts from industry insiders on platforms like X. According to Middler, Bethesda and its parent company, Microsoft, are working on multiple Fallout projects, including a Fallout 3 remaster, a potential Fallout: New Vegas 2, and the long-confirmed Fallout 5. These claims align with earlier leaks from 2023 during the FTC hearings regarding Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, which revealed Bethesda’s plans for a Fallout 3 remaster alongside other projects like The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion remaster, which has since been released.

Additionally, posts on X have further fueled speculation, with claims that a Fallout 3 remake is in development and that another Fallout game, possibly led by Obsidian Entertainment, could be in the works. While these are unconfirmed reports, the success of Amazon’s Fallout TV series and the recent Oblivion remaster have added credibility to the idea that Bethesda is looking to capitalize on the franchise’s renewed popularity.

Why These Rumors Make Sense

The rumors about new Fallout games are not just wishful thinking—they align with several strategic and cultural factors that make their development plausible:

1. The Success of the Amazon Fallout TV Series: The Fallout TV series, which premiered in 2024, has been a massive hit, drawing both longtime fans and newcomers to the franchise. With Season 2 set to explore locations like New Vegas, Bethesda and Microsoft have a golden opportunity to leverage this hype with new games or remasters to keep the fanbase engaged.
   
2. Bethesda’s Development Pipeline: Bethesda is currently focused on The Elder Scrolls VI, which is still in pre-production and likely won’t release until 2027 or later. With Fallout 5 confirmed to follow The Elder Scrolls VI, a release before 2030 seems unlikely. To fill this gap and maintain fan interest, remasters like Fallout 3 and potential collaborations with other studios (e.g., Obsidian for New Vegas 2) make strategic sense.
   
3. Microsoft’s Acquisition of Bethesda and Obsidian: Microsoft’s ownership of both Bethesda and Obsidian Entertainment, the studio behind Fallout: New Vegas, opens the door for closer collaboration. Fans have long clamored for a New Vegas sequel, and with both studios under the same umbrella, the logistical barriers to such a project are lower than ever.
   
4. Proven Success of Remasters: The recent release of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion remaster, developed by Virtuos Games, has been a success, proving that there’s a market for modernized versions of Bethesda’s classic RPGs. A Fallout 3 remaster, potentially using Unreal Engine 5, could follow a similar path, offering updated visuals and gameplay while requiring fewer resources than a brand-new title.
   
5. Fan Demand: Fallout 3 and Fallout: New Vegas are often cited as two of the most beloved entries in the series. A remaster of Fallout 3 or a sequel to New Vegas would appeal to the large fanbase of both classics, while also attracting new players inspired by the TV series.

Breaking Down the Three Rumored Fallout Projects

Based on the available information, here’s a detailed look at the three rumored Fallout projects and what they might entail:

1. Fallout 3 Remaster

• What We Know: The Fallout 3 remaster has been a persistent rumor since it appeared in leaked documents during the 2023 FTC hearings. According to insider Nate the Hate, the project exists but is still “a while” away, potentially targeting a 2027 release to align with The Elder Scrolls VI. The remaster is reportedly being developed by Virtuos Games, the studio behind the Oblivion remaster, and may feature updated visuals using Unreal Engine 5, improved gunplay inspired by Fallout 4, and enhanced gameplay mechanics to appeal to modern audiences.
  
• Why It Matters: Fallout 3 (2008) was a groundbreaking title that brought the series into 3D, immersing players in a post-apocalyptic Washington, D.C. However, its gunplay and graphics have aged significantly. A remaster could modernize the experience, making it accessible to new players while satisfying nostalgic fans. Bruce Nesmith, a former Bethesda designer, emphasized the need for improved gunplay to bring it closer to Fallout 4’s standards, which would address one of the original game’s biggest criticisms.
  
• Potential Features:
  • Enhanced graphics with Unreal Engine 5 for a visually stunning Capital Wasteland.
  • Overhauled combat mechanics, including smoother shooting and V.A.T.S. integration.
  • Possible inclusion of all DLCs, such as Point Lookout and Broken Steel.
  • Availability on modern platforms like Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC, potentially as a day-one Xbox Game Pass title.
    

2. Fallout: New Vegas 2

• What We Know: The rumor of Fallout: New Vegas 2 is less concrete but highly exciting. Jordan Middler mentioned it in a playful tone during the Friends Per Second podcast, suggesting it could be a jest, but the idea has gained traction due to fan demand and Obsidian’s expressed interest in returning to the Fallout universe. In 2023, Obsidian hinted at being open to developing another Fallout game, and with Microsoft owning both Bethesda and Obsidian, a collaboration seems feasible. Additionally, the upcoming Fallout TV series Season 2, set in New Vegas, could serve as a marketing springboard.
  
• Why It Matters: Fallout: New Vegas is widely regarded as one of the best entries in the series, praised for its deep story, complex faction systems, and memorable setting in the Mojave Desert. A sequel could build on this legacy, offering new stories, updated mechanics, and a return to the fan-favorite location. The timing feels right, as the TV series could amplify interest in the New Vegas setting.
  
• Potential Features:
  • A new story set in the Mojave or a nearby region, potentially exploring the aftermath of the original game’s events.
  • Modernized gameplay with improved graphics, possibly using Bethesda’s Creation Engine or Unreal Engine 5.
  • Expanded faction systems, offering even more player choice and branching narratives.
  • Cross-platform release, likely prioritizing Xbox and PC due to Microsoft’s ownership.
    
    

3. Fallout 5

• What We Know: Fallout 5 is the only project officially confirmed by Bethesda, with Todd Howard stating in 2022 that it will follow The Elder Scrolls VI. However, with The Elder Scrolls VI still in pre-production, Fallout 5 is likely a decade away, with a release not expected before 2030. While details on the story or setting are scarce, Howard mentioned a one-page document outlining ideas for the game, and the TV series avoided certain concepts to prevent overlap with Fallout 5’s narrative.
  
• Why It Matters: As the next mainline entry, Fallout 5 is expected to be a massive undertaking, building on the open-world RPG formula that made Fallout 3 and Fallout 4 iconic. Given Bethesda’s focus on quality over speed, as emphasized by Howard, the game will likely feature cutting-edge technology, possibly using an overhauled Creation Engine. Its release on future consoles and PC, potentially as an Xbox exclusive, could redefine the franchise for a new generation.
  
• Potential Features:
  • A new setting, with fan speculation pointing to locations like New Orleans or Chicago.
  • Enhanced RPG mechanics, building on Fallout 4’s crafting and settlement systems.
  • Integration of next-gen technology for improved visuals, AI, and world interactivity.
  • Likely a day-one Xbox Game Pass title, with uncertainty around a PlayStation release.
    

Why These Projects Are Exciting for Fans and Newcomers

The potential for a Fallout 3 remaster, Fallout: New Vegas 2, and Fallout 5 is thrilling for several reasons:

• Nostalgia Meets Modernity: A Fallout 3 remaster would refresh a beloved classic, making it accessible to new players while satisfying longtime fans. Improved gunplay and visuals could bridge the gap between the 2008 original and modern gaming expectations.
  
• Fan Wish Fulfillment: Fallout: New Vegas 2 would fulfill a decade-long dream for fans who consider the original the pinnacle of the series. With Obsidian’s expertise in storytelling, a sequel could deliver a narrative-driven masterpiece.
  
• A Bright Future for the Franchise: Fallout 5 represents the long-term vision for the series, promising a next-gen experience that could redefine what a Fallout game can be. While it’s farther away, Fallout 5 represents the future of the franchise, promising a groundbreaking experience with next-gen technology and a fresh setting.
  These three projects, a Fallout 3 remaster, Fallout: New Vegas 2, and Fallout 5, cater to both nostalgic fans and newcomers drawn in by the Fallout TV series. The rumors, backed by credible leaks from the 2023 FTC hearings and insider reports, make sense given Bethesda’s need to maintain momentum while The Elder Scrolls VI is in development.
  Microsoft’s ownership of Bethesda and Obsidian further supports the feasibility of a New Vegas sequel, while the success of the Oblivion remaster sets a precedent for a Fallout 3 overhaul.

As the Fallout universe continues to grow, these projects could solidify its place as a cultural juggernaut. While Bethesda has yet to confirm the rumors, the evidence suggests exciting times ahead for fans. Keep an eye on official announcements, and let us know in the comments which Fallout project you’re most excited for!

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