Fans Mourn Starfield as Xbox Layoffs Shift Bethesda Focus to Fallout, Elder Scrolls, Wolfenstein, Doom, and Quake

Don't hold your breath for a Starfield sequel, according to the latest news from Xbox's restructuring. A Bloomberg report reveals that Microsoft's overhaul will have Bethesda prioritizing five key franchises: Fallout, The Elder Scrolls, Wolfenstein, Doom, and Quake. At least three of these already have games in development. Rumors suggest Obsidian might work on a Fallout title since Bethesda is busy with The Elder Scrolls 6, but nothing is confirmed.

Notably, Starfield is missing from this list. The sci-fi game, a passion project for Bethesda's Todd Howard, launched in 2023 after a long development cycle. It largely disappointed fans, and subsequent updates and expansions haven't changed that perception. Some hardcore fans hoped for more expansions or a sequel, but those hopes now seem dashed.

Starfield fans are mourning the apparent end of the franchise's future. Some are protesting Xbox over its potential demise. "If you end Starfield, I am leaving," said one Xbox player. "I became part of the Xbox family for this game, a game that was finally something unique... My wallet will stay closed." Another added, "If this means no more new Starfield development, I absolutely hate this." One fan pleaded, "Please don't give up on Starfield."

Others are more understanding, given the game's long development and underwhelming reception. "The amount of time it took to develop and then the end product just not hitting the mark, it's understandable," said one fan. Another echoed, "Starfield left a bad taste in people's mouths... I understand why Microsoft is more eager to invest in other IP." A third commented, "Based on its own merits, that should be a one and done."

Starfield released on PS5 earlier this year, but analysts believe it sold poorly on Sony's console, a fate that might have been avoided with a day-and-date PlayStation release in 2023. Whether Starfield returns decades from now remains uncertain, but it looks unlikely.