Fallout 5 confirmed? Xbox cancels a project to focus on the franchise

The Fallout fever isn't stopping, and according to new reports, Bethesda and Xbox have already given the green light to the full development of Fallout 5. Although the project is just getting started, the decision involves significant internal changes.

One of the most notable would be the cancellation of an ambitious MMO that had been in development for years. This way, Microsoft is redirecting its resources to a franchise with a guaranteed fan base and a more relevant present than ever.

Fallout 5: green light and strategy shift

According to journalist Jez Corden from Windows Central, Microsoft would have prioritized Fallout 5 over the MMO known as Project Blackbird from ZeniMax Online Studios.

This game, which was aimed at the multiplayer science fiction genre, had been in development since 2018. However, it was scrapped after the latest round of layoffs and cutbacks within the Xbox ecosystem.

Why was Project Blackbird canceled?

The main reason would have been strategic: to invest in an established brand like Fallout instead of taking a risk with a new title that would have to compete in a saturated market.

"The decision was between betting on something new or strengthening what already works," Corden commented, alluding to comparisons with World of Warcraft.

Who's going to develop Fallout 5?

The big question is which studio will be in charge of the new installment. Bethesda Game Studios remains focused on The Elder Scrolls VI and supporting Starfield. That's why it's not ruled out that development could fall to an external team.

For now, the project would be in an early phase. The game could take years to arrive, but it's already a reality for Microsoft's and Bethesda's plans.

More Fallout content to ease the anxiety

As a way to keep interest in the saga alive, a remaster of Fallout 3 is also rumored, which could be released before Fallout 5.

Meanwhile, Fallout 76 continues with its active roadmap. Last month, it added a new update with unprecedented features such as fishing, which was well received by players.