Pros and Cons of Bethesda Adopting Unreal Engine 5

Bethesda Game Studios often finds itself at the center of criticism, but it’s impossible to overlook the significant impact the company has had on the RPG world. Back in 2011, Bethesda launched The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, a fantasy action game that quickly became a cornerstone of the RPG genre, inspiring a wave of games big and small. In 2015, Fallout 4 hit the scene, maintaining a strong player base nearly a decade later, despite facing some backlash from devoted Fallout fans. Both titles have sold millions globally, cementing their spots in the annals of RPG history.

While Bethesda has seen considerable success, its titles aren’t exactly celebrated for their technical prowess. Games like Skyrim, Fallout 4, Fallout 76, and even the new Starfield, have attracted critique for their perceived lack of cutting-edge visuals. Running on Bethesda’s proprietary Creation Engine, these games fall short of the realistic aesthetics seen in other modern AAA titles. Frequent loading screens, persistent bugs, and various technical hiccups add to the chorus calling them outdated. This perceived shortfall largely stems from the Creation Engine itself, leading some to suggest that a shift to Unreal Engine 5 could be beneficial. However, this would be a double-edged sword, potentially offering gains but also posing some setbacks for Bethesda Game Studios.

### The Pros and Cons of Switching from Creation Engine to Unreal Engine 5

Let’s dive into how Unreal Engine 5 could play a pivotal role in making Bethesda’s games more visually appealing and easier to develop. Known for its advanced graphics technology, Unreal Engine 5 introduces features like Lumen and Nanite, capable of producing breathtaking game visuals when used effectively. Should Bethesda opt to harness Unreal Engine 5 for future projects, we could see a dramatic leap in how their games look. Imagine a Fallout or Elder Scrolls title with the visual finesse, vivid lighting, and lifelike characters akin to what we see in games like Black Myth: Wukong. For many franchise fans, this would be a captivating experience.

Beyond enhancing graphics, transitioning to Unreal Engine 5 could streamline the development process, allowing games to reach players more swiftly. Working with custom-built engines such as the Creation Engine presents unique challenges, often requiring specialized knowledge and significant training. Conversely, Unreal Engine 5 is widely recognized, with many developers familiar with its workings right off the bat. As noted by former Bethesda artist Nate Purkeypile, this familiarity means easier hiring and ramping up, potentially accelerating development timelines.

### Creation Engine is Far More Moddable and Fine-Tuned for Bethesda Games Compared to UE5

Switching to Unreal Engine 5 might bolster Bethesda’s workflow, but it’s certainly not a panacea for all the Creation Engine’s shortcomings. Unreal Engine 5 has faced its share of scrutiny for various reasons, primarily engine homogenization. Recently, a growing number of AAA studios have chosen to transition to Unreal Engine, moving away from their proprietary engines to ease development rigors. While this shift has its backers, some caution that it could lower game quality over time. In-house engines are typically optimized for specific game types and might offer specialized features that general-purpose engines cannot match.

One standout advantage of the Creation Engine remains its unparalleled mod support. Bethesda’s software is renowned for its flexibility in modding, outshining Unreal Engine 5 in this respect. Modding is a cornerstone of the Bethesda community, making it essential for the company to continue offering mod-friendly games. Embracing Unreal Engine 5 could jeopardize this vital aspect of their fan base.