This discussion gathers viewpoints on the upcoming Fallout project and raises concerns about the technology powering it. A key figure from the London initiative expresses unease about continuing to use the current engine for the next installment. He believes the engineering foundation has served its purpose, yet its design now appears dated for modern developments.
The project leader from the London team anticipates that by the time the next game arrives, major changes or even a complete abandonment of the existing framework will have occurred. His perspective is influenced by the studio’s long history with its proprietary tools, evolving since the early days of Morrowind.
A review of the studio’s progression shows that the same core technology was used from Morrowind in 2003 through to later titles. The evolution began with the NetImmerse engine, later rebranded as Gamebryo for major releases like Elder Scrolls IV and Fallout 3. The subsequent introduction of a proprietary tool for The Elder Scrolls V further built on this legacy, with later titles such as Fallout 4 and Starfield adapting newer iterations of the engine.
The lead developer has voiced concerns about relying on the well-known framework for a future major release, noting that while the engine has many strengths, it clearly requires significant rejuvenation. He stressed that it is not entirely flawed but is showing signs of wear and would benefit from comprehensive updates.
- Modernization of visual transitions and reduction of downtime between scenes
- Overall performance enhancements and smoother user experiences
- Addressing common frustrations from players who have experienced prolonged pauses during gameplay
In one example from the London project, the team had to implement quick fixes to stabilize a notoriously volatile game area. In doing so, they prioritized technical performance over uninterrupted immersion, recognizing that early fixes came at a narrative and experiential cost.
There is also a brief mention of ideas regarding potential settings for upcoming titles. One former team member suggested exploring a location in the southern regions, though he warned that extending the scope too far might lead to unforeseen challenges. This view aligns with similar opinions from other experienced developers in the industry.