The Elder Scrolls VI Development Could Face More Issues Due to Microsoft’s Layoffs at Bethesda

Although Microsoft has not shut down any of its gaming studios during its ongoing restructuring, as it confirmed on July 6, the company has made significant layoffs across several departments—including major studios like Bethesda Game Studios. Reports suggest that these cuts could directly impact the developers' future projects, including the much-anticipated and long-suffering The Elder Scrolls VI, which was announced back in 2018 and still doesn't have a release date.

According to a new exclusive IGN report, over 50 developers who were working on The Elder Scrolls VI have left Bethesda Game Studios as a result of Microsoft's recent layoffs. These employees were described as "key, high-performing people in the trenches," and their departure has significantly impacted the morale of the remaining staff. Additionally, it has increased the risk of potential overtime for those still on the team, which could lead to further delays in the game's release. Furthermore, on the social media platform Bluesky, the Bethesda Game Studios Union account shared several photos showing "Celebrations of Service" memorials for the employees who lost their jobs.

Continuing the IGN report, several employees who wished to remain anonymous to avoid potential issues stated that the studio's layoffs affected specialists across nearly all departments—programmers, artists, designers, writers, and more. Additionally, at least one person who had been with Bethesda since the release of 2002's The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind also lost their job.

Undoubtedly, this situation could negatively impact The Elder Scrolls VI's development, as the game is not expected to release for at least the next two years, and possibly even longer. This was recently revealed by Bloomberg gaming journalist Jason Schreier when he was asked about the potential release of Bethesda Game Studios' highly anticipated project. However, studio head Todd Howard has previously reassured fans that the developers need more time to get everything right. Additionally, Xbox Chief Content Officer Matt Booty, who recently visited Bethesda's office, said that The Elder Scrolls VI looks amazing. He essentially echoed Howard's words, stating that the studio will definitely showcase the game when the time is right.

Despite the lack of official news, rumors about The Elder Scrolls VI have regularly surfaced. In particular, it has been suggested that the game's events will take place in the regions of Hammerfell and High Rock. Players are expected to be able to visit more than 10 major cities, and sea voyages—similar to the spaceship travel in Starfield—will play a key role in the gameplay.

The Elder Scrolls VI is confirmed to release on PC and Xbox Series X/S. The official release date remains unknown.