RPG games are known for their extensive gameplay that can require a significant amount of time to complete. Titles like Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 and Cyberpunk 2077 can take well over 100 hours to finish if players decide to tackle all the side quests.
Bethesda’s RPGs, such as Fallout 4 and Skyrim, are also known for their lengthy completion times, with players spending around 160 and 257 hours respectively to fully explore the games. However, there are talks within the studio suggesting that the upcoming Fallout 5 could potentially offer up to 600 hours of gameplay.
During an interview with Game Informer, studio design director Emil Pagliarulo expressed his desire to create a game that offers an immersive experience lasting beyond the typical 20 to 100 hours. He aims to provide players with a game that can be enjoyed for 200, 300, or even 600 hours, emphasizing Bethesda’s commitment to creating expansive gaming worlds.
The debate over the length of video games often arises, particularly with the release of new RPG titles known for their vast content. While extensive gameplay can offer value for money, not everyone has the time to dedicate hundreds of hours to a single game, potentially limiting the opportunity to explore other gaming experiences.
Bethesda is not planning to make Fallout 5 a 600-hour epic solely focused on the main story. Instead, players can expect to find a game that offers hundreds of hours of gameplay through various playthroughs and character builds, similar to the replayability seen in titles like Skyrim.
Although Bethesda has not officially announced Fallout 5, the studio is currently focusing on The Elder Scrolls VI. Director Todd Howard has indicated that Fallout remains a significant project for the team, with ongoing developments like the Amazon TV show and the continued support for Fallout 76.