Todd Howard talks about Bethesda joining Xbox, says both share a similar 'trajectory'

Elder Scrolls 6 image
Elder Scrolls 6 image (Image credit: Bethesda (screenshot))

What you need to know

  • Microsoft is acquiring ZeniMax Media, meaning that Bethesda is joining Xbox.
  • Todd Howard of Bethesda Game Studios has shared some thoughts on what has happened.
  • Howard believes that both companies share a similar 'trajectory.'

As part of today's shocking news that Microsoft is acquiring ZeniMax Media, meaning Bethesda is joining Xbox Game Studios, Todd Howard of Bethesda Game Studios offered some interesting thoughts on the situation. He notes that the parntership between the companies first began in 1999 with discussion of an Xbox version of The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind.

With each new console cycle, we evolved together. From bringing mods to consoles with Fallout 4, now over a billion downloads, to the latest technologies fueling Xbox Series X/S. These new systems are optimized for the vast worlds we love to create, with generational leaps not just in graphics, but CPU and data streaming as well. It's led to our largest engine overhaul since Oblivion, with all new technologies powering our first new IP in 25 years, Starfield, as well as The Elder Scrolls VI.

Howard also mentions that like Bethesda and Microsoft's partnership back on Morrowind, the two companies "share a deep belief" about how games should be accessible and have a similar "trajectory" that goes hand-in-hand.

As part of this deal, Xbox Game Studios is growing from 15 to 23 first-party studios, with new titles from Bethesda Game Studios and the other teams launching into Xbox Game Pass, which now has over 15 million subscribers.

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Samuel Tolbert
Freelance Writer

Samuel Tolbert is a freelance writer covering gaming news, previews, reviews, interviews and different aspects of the gaming industry, specifically focusing on Xbox and PC gaming on Windows Central. You can find him on Twitter @SamuelTolbert.