RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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The Elder Scrolls Online is undergoing some setbacks as a result of Xbox's recent reset and associated layoffs.
There has been a lot of speculation over the future of ESO for about a month now, and the team behind the game has stepped forward to clear the air. In a new blog post from game director Nick Giacomini, it is made clear that Elder Scrolls Online will continue and isn't on the verge of being shut down.
"Recently, we've been through a number of organizational changes and departures of teammates who helped shape The Elder Scrolls Online," he wrote. "We are profoundly grateful for everything they've contributed to the game and the community we've built together.
"At the same time, we've seen a lot of questions about what these changes mean for ESO. So let me be clear: ESO is here to stay, and our team is dedicated to the future of this game. Our focus hasn't changed. It is continuing to grow The Elder Scrolls Online and build upon the world millions of players call home."
Giacomini also outlined the team's plans to support the game going forward. He reaffirmed the recent news that ZeniMax Online Studios will be closely collaborating with Bethesda Game Studios on the future of The Elder Scrolls and stated that will give the team "new opportunities to share ideas" and create better experiences for players.
Unfortunately, the team is also delaying some content. Due to the recent restructuring at all Xbox-owned studios, the team has had to delay content in order to make sure it meets a level of quality that everyone can be satisfied with. So, the new Crimson Veldt trial, class and combat refreshes, and update 52 are all being pushed back to 2027.
"Instead of rushing to hit a previously announced deadline, we are giving our teams the runway they need to do things right," said the game director. "Some of our upcoming additions, like the Class and Combat Refresh and our new Trial, are highly complex, and we want to ensure they hit the mark before we put them in your hands."
There will still be plenty of content coming to Elder Scrolls Online in 2026, though. New stories, quests, and events are coming throughout the fall in addition to a new rumor system and quality of life upgrades. These pieces of content will roll out across September and October as part of Season 1 and Season 2.
As already noted, ZOS is also working closely with Bethesda Game Studio on the future of the IP. It's believed the studio will be assisting on the development of The Elder Scrolls 6 , arguably the most important game that Xbox has on the horizon. The stakes are pretty high given the state of Xbox and the fact Starfield failed to meet expectations for many players. Bethesda will likely need all the help it can get to give something that justifies the long wait for this game.
Bethesda is also continuing to support its other big IP, Fallout. Remasters of Fallout 3 and New Vegas are in the works in addition to a new Fallout game from Obsidian Entertainment. Bethesda has also entered pre-production on Fallout 5 , likely to ensure the team can make the jump to it after The Elder Scrolls 6 is finished.
Cade Onder is a freelancer for IGN's news team. He covers all things entertainment, including gaming, film, and more. You can find him on Twitter @Cade_Onder.
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