3 min read
The wait for The Elder Scrolls 6 (TES6) continues. However, new updates from Bethesda suggest the gears are finally turning. As of December 2025, Todd Howard confirms that development is “progressing really well”. While details remain scarce, we have gathered every confirmed fact and credible rumour regarding our return to Tamriel.
The Elder Scrolls 6 Release Date & Development Status
Don’t hold your breath for a launch this year. Documents from the Microsoft/FTC case suggest 2026 is the absolute earliest we might see the game. However, even that date seems optimistic. Todd Howard recently stated that the game is still “a long ways off”.
Currently, The Elder Scrolls 6 is the “everyday thing” for Bethesda’s development team. The studio has moved past the design phase. They are now testing early playable builds. Interestingly, Howard expressed a desire to “shadow drop” the game when it is ready. This would mimic the surprise launch of the Oblivion Remastered. However, Microsoft will likely demand a massive marketing campaign for such a high-profile release.
Engine & Gameplay Innovations
Bethesda is building The Elder Scrolls 6 on “Creation Engine 2”. This is the same engine used for Starfield. Nevertheless, the studio is customising the tech. Howard mentioned that every game requires new suites of technology. Consequently, TES6 will feature specific additions to handle Bethesda’s ambitious vision.
The studio is architecting this game for longevity. Bethesda expects players to stay in this world for a decade or two. Because of this, mod support is a core priority. The game is being designed from the ground up to empower creators. This ensures the legacy of the community continues.
Where is the Setting of The Elder Scrolls 6?
Bethesda has already decided on the location, but they are keeping it secret. Fans have analysed the 2018 teaser trailer for clues.
Two major theories have emerged:
- High Rock: The teaser shows high, rocky terrain and crumbling ruins. This makes “High Rock” the most popular guess.
- Hammerfell: A 2020 Bethesda social media post showed candles “mapping the future”. One candle sat near the “Hammerfell” region. Furthermore, a small scratch in a Starfield trailer resembles the “Illiac Bay”, which borders “Hammerfell”.
Transcribe the past and map the future. 📖
Here’s to a Happy New Year!🕯 pic.twitter.com/bL44CzLDIE— The Elder Scrolls (@ElderScrolls) December 31, 2020
NPCs & Community Tributes
The world of “Tamriel” will feature some familiar faces from the community. Shirley Curry, famously known as “Skyrim Grandma”, is officially confirmed as an NPC. Additionally, a mystery bidder won a Make-A-Wish auction for $85,450 to have their likeness added to the game. Finally, editors from the UESP wiki designed a character to honour the late community member Loranna Pyrel.
The Question of Exclusivity
Is The Elder Scrolls 6 an Xbox exclusive? The answer is complicated. Initially, Microsoft hinted at exclusivity. However, the strategy has shifted recently. Microsoft has started releasing titles like Indiana Jones and the Great Circle and Doom: The Dark Ages on PS5. Even the Oblivion Remastered landed on PlayStation consoles. Therefore, a PS5 release for TES6 is a distinct possibility.
This game may mark the end of an era. Todd Howard hinted that TES6 could be his “last hurrah”. Given the long development cycles, he admitted he “isn’t getting any younger”.
