Could The Elder Scrolls Be Next for a TV Adaptation?
Bethesda’s Todd Howard hints at the possibility of an Elder Scrolls television series, following the remarkable success of Fallout on Amazon Prime, but cautions that such a project could take years to materialise.
With Fallout’s recent leap from console to screen drawing widespread attention, speculation is mounting over which beloved game franchise might be next in line for a television adaptation. Bethesda’s head, Todd Howard, has addressed the growing curiosity, suggesting that while a series based on The Elder Scrolls is not out of the question, fans may need to exercise patience.
Reflections on Fallout’s Journey
Howard reflected on the lengthy process that brought Fallout to Amazon Prime, noting that the idea of adapting the post-apocalyptic saga had been circulating for quite some time.
"I will say this, the Fallout journey was like a 10 year one,"
he remarked, recalling how interest in a film or series began after Fallout 3. The studio, however, chose to bide its time, ensuring the right approach before moving forward.
"But, you never know. I think the impact of the show on Fallout as a franchise has been bigger than I expected, so it does make you think like 'hey, is there a path?'. But, nothing today… [and] I'm willing to say 'no' for a decade."
Challenges of Adapting Fantasy
Howard also observed that Fallout’s unique setting made it particularly well-suited for adaptation, offering a distinct voice within its genre. He suggested that bringing a fantasy epic like The Elder Scrolls to television would present its own set of challenges, not least because any such project would inevitably be compared to established giants of the genre. The shadow of Game of Thrones, for instance, looms large over any new fantasy drama, setting a high bar for both storytelling and production values.
Fallout, by contrast, stands apart with its retro-futuristic vision of a devastated world, where mutated creatures and ruthless survivors roam the wasteland, and the remnants of civilisation cling to life in underground vaults. The show’s blend of dark humour and bleak adventure has helped it carve out a niche, distinguishing it from other post-apocalyptic tales.
What Lies Ahead for Game Adaptations?
As anticipation builds for the second series of Fallout, set to premiere on Amazon Prime Video on 17 December, attention is turning to other potential adaptations. The success of Fallout has prompted renewed interest in which video game universes might make the transition to television next. Among the contenders are The Legend of Zelda, Five Nights at Freddy's 2, a new take on Resident Evil, and Street Fighter.
For now, though, Howard’s comments suggest that while the door remains open for The Elder Scrolls to follow in Fallout’s footsteps, any such project would be a long-term undertaking. Fans of the fantasy series may have to wait a good while before seeing Tamriel brought to life on the small screen.