Fallout 5 is still on the distant horizon, with no release date in sight. Before we get our hands on the next Fallout installment, Bethesda has its sights set on delivering The Elder Scrolls 6. This means fans of the post-apocalyptic series may have to exercise patience for quite some time. However, if we take a closer look at Bethesda’s recent hit, Starfield, we might just spot some elements that could find their way into Fallout 5. The space-based RPG has been quite the rollercoaster in terms of reception, yet it’s brimming with creative features that could make the jump to Fallout’s universe.
The connection between Starfield and The Elder Scrolls 6 is undeniable, but Fallout potentially shares even more DNA with the intergalactic saga. Both franchises utilize their own take on technology, albeit in contrasting environments. Starfield introduces us to a world of advanced starhopping societies, while Fallout depicts an America picking up the pieces after nuclear fallout. Despite these differences, Fallout’s sci-fi elements align well with the concepts explored in Starfield, particularly the introduction of land vehicles—a standout feature post-launch.
In August, Starfield made waves by introducing the REV-8, its very first land vehicle, offering players a revolutionary way to traverse planets. Instead of traversing harsh terrains on foot, they could now speed across vast landscapes, redefining exploration. This addition was a major hit and is seen as one of the standout improvements since Starfield’s release in 2023. Incorporating a similar feature right out of the gate could be a transformative move for Fallout 5.
The exact setting for Fallout 5 remains a mystery, yet one element seems assured: players will once again find themselves navigating a sprawling, devastated wasteland. Whether this wasteland unfolds in a new location remains to be seen, but the franchise’s signature theme of survival in a dangerous, irradiated world is certain to persist. For Fallout 5 to make its mark, fresh features are crucial, and a land vehicle could be the ticket to achieving that.
In Starfield, Bethesda also recently offered players a new land vehicle, the Deimog, available for free download—another hint that vehicular travel might gain traction in future titles.
While Fallout has traditionally meant trekking through desolate expanses, fast travel usually becomes available, offering a shortcut across the map. Nevertheless, some fans prefer the immersive experience of journeying through the environment. Adding vehicles could add a new layer without losing this richness, slashing travel time from one location to another while injecting some renewed vigor into the franchise.
With the mixed reactions to Starfield and the hush-hush nature surrounding The Elder Scrolls 6, anticipation builds for what Bethesda might bring to the next Fallout. Fallout 76 has the advantage of ongoing updates, continually evolving, yet Fallout 5 will need to hit the ground running. Known for its after-launch improvements, Bethesda will likely have its hands full managing the excitement and expectations for Fallout 5. A standalone game, hotly anticipated and fresh from launch, will need a captivating hook, and maybe, just maybe, vehicles could be it.
While the countdown to Fallout 5 continues, Bethesda stands in a prime position to assess which features in Starfield are resonating most with players. Starfield might not be perfect, but its inclusion of land vehicles can surely set a benchmark for the next chapter of Fallout.
