Bethesda Game Studios head Todd Howard has addressed persistent online speculation about a rivalry between his studio and Obsidian Entertainment, developers of the beloved Fallout: New Vegas. Howard stated that the discourse does not reflect the reality of the relationship between the two companies, emphasizing a "huge amount of mutual respect" behind the scenes.
Obsidian's work on Fallout: New Vegas in 2010 is widely regarded by fans, and rumors have circulated that Howard was somehow displeased with its success. However, Howard has repeatedly expressed admiration for the title and its creators, including a 2018 interview where he said Obsidian "did a fabulous job." He also revealed in a recent interview with Windows Central that Bethesda has "always" been looking for the right opportunity to collaborate with Obsidian again.
That collaboration is now confirmed, with Obsidian developing a new Fallout game. This news comes as Obsidian was among the Xbox studios affected by recent workforce reductions, with reports indicating a significant percentage of staff were let go.
In broader Fallout news, Bethesda has confirmed that Fallout 5 is in its pre-production phase. Additionally, remasters of both Fallout 3 and Fallout: New Vegas are planned, and a prequel story to Fallout 3 will be introduced in Fallout 76.