Unveiling Fallout 4's Next-Gen Port: Bethesda's Unexpected Twist!
Fallout 4's highly anticipated next-gen version is on the horizon, but Bethesda's surprising lack of promotion and enthusiasm surrounding the release raises questions about the game's standing within the franchise
Bethesda has been surprisingly tight-lipped about the highly anticipated dedicated update for Fallout 4, which is scheduled for release in 2023 to cater to next-generation consoles. The lack of information regarding the update has left fans wondering about the specific enhancements and features it will bring. Interestingly, when comparing the treatment of Fallout 4's next-gen update to that of Skyrim's next-gen versions, it becomes apparent that Bethesda has approached these two popular releases with different strategies, potentially revealing their contrasting attitudes towards them.
The Lack of Fanfare Behind Fallout 4 Next-Gen
Since its announcement in October 2022, there has been a lack of information and advertising from Bethesda regarding the next-generation upgrade for Fallout 4. However, it has been confirmed that the upgrade will include performance and quality modes, additional Creation Club content, and bug fixes. While there are rumors about potential brand-new Fallout New Vegas content, these rumors remain unconfirmed. Given the planned release of the next-gen update in 2023, there were high expectations for Bethesda to provide more extensive and focused communication about the project.
While this is not a major issue in itself, the way Fallout 4 next-gen is treated can be compared to other similar releases by Bethesda. For instance, Skyrim has gained significant attention with multiple re-releases since its initial launch in 2011, two of which specifically cater to next-gen gameplay. Right from the beginning, Bethesda has approached the updates for Fallout 4 and Skyrim for next-gen in distinct ways, not only in terms of how they are acquired but also in the extent of their enhancements.
Skyrim's Next-Gen Releases Versus Fallout 4 Next-Gen
Skyrim made its debut on the latest generation of consoles with the release of Special Edition in 2016. A more extensive next-gen version, known as the Anniversary Edition, was later launched in 2021. These editions not only included Skyrim's various DLC expansions but also offered a plethora of Creator Club content for the game. It is worth noting that unlike Fallout 4, Skyrim's next-gen re-releases were premium releases, requiring a separate purchase.
Bethesda's treatment of Fallout 4's next-gen update reinforces the company's stance on both titles. Unlike Skyrim, which saw numerous premium re-releases, Fallout 4 has experienced a lackluster post-launch phase, indicating potential regrets from Bethesda regarding the game. One aspect that received considerable criticism was Fallout 4's dialogue system. Departing from the traditional dialogue boxes, the game employed ambiguous prompts that left players feeling disconnected from their characters. However, Bethesda's decision to revert to the traditional dialogue system in upcoming releases like Starfield suggests that they acknowledge and regret some of the creative choices made in Fallout 4.
Fallout 4 is accessible on PC, PS4, and Xbox One, catering to a wide range of gamers.
