The Fallout franchise is one of the most iconic series in video game history. Known for its post-apocalyptic world, dark humor, and open-world exploration, the Fallout games have captured the imaginations of millions of players worldwide. However, not every Fallout title was created by the same company. While the series began under Interplay Entertainment in the late 1990s, Bethesda Game Studios later took control and transformed it into a modern gaming powerhouse.
If you’ve ever wondered how many Fallout games were made by Bethesda, this complete guide breaks it all down—covering the games, expansions, spin-offs, and how Bethesda reshaped the series for a new generation of players.
The Origins of the Fallout Franchise
Before Bethesda entered the scene, Fallout was originally developed by Interplay Entertainment and its RPG division, Black Isle Studios. The first two games, Fallout (1997) and Fallout 2 (1998), were isometric, turn-based RPGs set in a post-nuclear America. They were critically acclaimed for their rich storytelling, dark humor, and open-ended gameplay.
Interplay also published Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel (2001), a spin-off focused on strategy and combat, and Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel (2004) for consoles—a less successful action game.
However, due to financial issues, Interplay sold the rights to Bethesda Softworks in 2004, marking the beginning of a new era for the series.
Bethesda’s Entry into the Fallout Universe
When Bethesda acquired the Fallout license, the studio was already known for creating expansive RPGs like The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind and The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. Fans were both excited and cautious—could Bethesda truly bring the wasteland back to life in 3D while preserving the spirit of the original games?
In 2008, Bethesda answered that question with Fallout 3, a complete reimagining of the franchise and the first Fallout game developed entirely by Bethesda Game Studios.
List of Fallout Games Made by Bethesda
Here’s a complete list of Fallout games that were developed or published by Bethesda Softworks:
1. Fallout 3 (2008)
- Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
- Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
- Platforms: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PC
Fallout 3 was a revolutionary shift from the original games. Bethesda transformed the series into a first-person, open-world RPG, using the same engine as The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. Set in the Capital Wasteland (a post-apocalyptic Washington, D.C.), players emerged from Vault 101 to search for their missing father.
The game was praised for its freedom of choice, immersive world, and deep moral decisions. It won Game of the Year awards and firmly established Bethesda as a top-tier RPG developer.
2. Fallout: New Vegas (2010)
- Developer: Obsidian Entertainment
- Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
- Platforms: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PC
Although Bethesda didn’t develop New Vegas, it published the game under its banner. Developed by Obsidian (a studio formed by former Black Isle developers), New Vegas is beloved for its writing, choices, and role-playing depth.
Set in the Mojave Desert around Las Vegas, the game allowed players to choose between major factions vying for control of the region. Many fans consider New Vegas the most “authentic” Fallout experience in modern times.
3. Fallout 4 (2015)
- Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
- Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
- Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
Fallout 4 built upon the foundation of Fallout 3 with updated graphics, a massive open world, and new gameplay systems. Set in the Commonwealth (Boston area), the story follows the “Sole Survivor” searching for their kidnapped child.
Bethesda introduced a crafting and settlement-building system, allowing players to create homes, bases, and defenses across the wasteland. Although some fans criticized the simplified dialogue system, Fallout 4 was a massive commercial success and remains one of Bethesda’s best-selling titles.
4. Fallout 76 (2018)
- Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
- Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
- Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
Fallout 76 was Bethesda’s first attempt at an online multiplayer Fallout experience. Set in West Virginia, it was designed as a prequel to all other Fallout games. Players emerged from Vault 76 to rebuild society alongside others in a shared world.
At launch, Fallout 76 faced heavy criticism for bugs, technical issues, and the lack of human NPCs. However, Bethesda continued to update and improve the game through patches and expansions such as Wastelanders and Steel Dawn, transforming it into a much more complete experience by 2022.
5. Fallout Shelter (2015)
- Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
- Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
- Platforms: Mobile, PC, Console
Fallout Shelter is a mobile management game where players oversee their own Vault as an Overseer. You assign dwellers to different rooms, manage resources, and protect against disasters. Initially released for iOS and Android, the game’s simple yet addictive mechanics made it a surprise hit.
Upcoming Bethesda Fallout Game
Bethesda has confirmed development of Fallout 5, but it’s still in early stages. According to Bethesda’s director Todd Howard, Fallout 5 will begin development after the completion of The Elder Scrolls VI. This means fans may have to wait several more years for the next major installment.
In the meantime, Fallout 76 continues to receive new updates, and the Fallout TV series on Amazon has reignited interest in the franchise.
Summary Table: Fallout Games by Bethesda
| Game Title | Year | Developer | Type | Notes |
| Fallout 3 | 2008 | Bethesda Game Studios | Mainline RPG | First 3D Fallout |
| Fallout: New Vegas | 2010 | Obsidian Entertainment | Spin-off RPG | Published by Bethesda |
| Fallout 4 | 2015 | Bethesda Game Studios | Mainline RPG | Introduced settlements |
| Fallout Shelter | 2015 | Bethesda Game Studios | Mobile/Sim | Vault management game |
| Fallout 76 | 2018 | Bethesda Game Studios | Online RPG | Multiplayer Fallout |
| Fallout 5 (Upcoming) | TBA | Bethesda Game Studios | Mainline RPG | Announced, not yet released |
Bethesda’s Impact on the Fallout Franchise
Bethesda didn’t just continue Fallout—it reinvented it. The transition from isometric gameplay to 3D first-person exploration opened the series to millions of new players. Bethesda’s version of Fallout emphasized:
- Immersive open worlds
- Player choice and consequences
- Environmental storytelling
- Mod support for PC players
While opinions vary on which era of Fallout is best, there’s no denying Bethesda’s influence. Their games helped Fallout evolve from a cult classic into one of the most recognizable franchises in gaming.
FAQs About. How Many Fallout Games Were Made by Bethesda? A Complete Guide for U.S. Gamers
The Fallout series is one of the most iconic post-apocalyptic video game franchises in history. Known for its immersive worlds, dark humor, and player freedom, Fallout has evolved dramatically since its creation. Originally developed by Interplay Entertainment, the series later found new life under Bethesda Game Studios, which transformed it into a massive open-world adventure loved by millions of gamers across the United States and beyond.
Below, we answer the most common FAQs about how many Fallout games were made by Bethesda—including details about each title, their development, and the legacy they’ve left behind.
1. How many Fallout games were made by Bethesda?
Bethesda Game Studios has developed four main Fallout games:
- Fallout 3 (2008)
- Fallout 4 (2015)
- Fallout Shelter (2015)
- Fallout 76 (2018)
Additionally, Bethesda published Fallout: New Vegas (2010), which was developed by Obsidian Entertainment.
So in total, Bethesda was directly involved in five Fallout titles — four developed internally and one published under its brand.
2. Did Bethesda create the original Fallout games?
No. The original Fallout (1997) and Fallout 2 (1998) were created by Interplay Entertainment and Black Isle Studios, not Bethesda. These early games were isometric, turn-based RPGs that built the foundation of the Fallout universe.
Bethesda only acquired the Fallout license in 2004, after Interplay faced financial difficulties. From that point onward, Bethesda took over the development of all major Fallout titles.
3. What was the first Fallout game made by Bethesda?
The first Fallout game developed by Bethesda Game Studios was Fallout 3, released in 2008. It was a major shift from the earlier games, turning the franchise into a first-person, open-world RPG built on Bethesda’s Elder Scrolls engine.
Set in the Capital Wasteland (post-apocalyptic Washington, D.C.), Fallout 3 let players explore a massive world filled with choices, factions, and consequences. It won numerous Game of the Year awards and redefined the series for modern audiences.
4. What is Fallout: New Vegas and did Bethesda make it?
Fallout: New Vegas (2010) was developed by Obsidian Entertainment but published by Bethesda Softworks. Many of Obsidian’s team members previously worked on the classic Fallout games at Black Isle Studios, giving New Vegas a tone and style closer to the originals.
Set in the Mojave Desert around Las Vegas, New Vegas became one of the most beloved entries in the series, praised for its writing, branching storylines, and deep role-playing elements. Even though Bethesda didn’t develop it directly, the game remains part of the Bethesda-era Fallout timeline.
5. What is Fallout 4 about?
Released in 2015, Fallout 4 was Bethesda’s next major step forward for the series. Set in the Commonwealth (Boston area), it tells the story of the “Sole Survivor,” who emerges from Vault 111 in search of their kidnapped child.
The game introduced a crafting and settlement-building system, allowing players to build entire communities. It also featured improved graphics, a voiced protagonist, and a refined combat system.
Despite mixed opinions on the dialogue system, Fallout 4 became one of Bethesda’s best-selling and most influential titles.
6. What is Fallout Shelter and why was it so popular?
Fallout Shelter was released in 2015 as a mobile simulation game, developed by Bethesda Game Studios. Players take on the role of an Overseer, managing their own Vault by assigning dwellers to work, training them, and defending against dangers.
Its simple yet addictive gameplay, combined with its charming art style, made it an instant hit among U.S. mobile gamers. It later expanded to PC, consoles, and even the Nintendo Switch.
7. What is Fallout 76 and is it still active?
Fallout 76, launched in 2018, is Bethesda’s first online multiplayer Fallout game. Set in West Virginia, it acts as a prequel to the other Fallout titles. Players leave Vault 76 to rebuild civilization in a shared online world.
At launch, the game received criticism for bugs and the absence of human NPCs. However, Bethesda has since released multiple major updates—such as Wastelanders, Steel Dawn, and The Pitt—that significantly improved the experience.
As of today, Fallout 76 remains active with regular content updates and a loyal community.
8. What upcoming Fallout games are in development?
Bethesda has officially confirmed that Fallout 5 is in development. However, the studio has stated that it will begin work on the project after finishing The Elder Scrolls VI, which means it could still be several years away.
Todd Howard, Bethesda’s game director, has reassured fans that the next Fallout will continue the tradition of open-world storytelling and player freedom that defines the series.
9. How has Bethesda changed the Fallout franchise?
Bethesda’s version of Fallout redefined what the series could be. Under their leadership, the games became:
- Fully 3D and first-person for immersive exploration
- Open-world adventures filled with choices and consequences
- Highly moddable, allowing fans to customize their experiences
- Accessible to a global audience through consoles and PC
While older fans of the original games miss the classic RPG mechanics, most agree that Bethesda’s vision expanded Fallout into one of gaming’s most successful franchises.
10. Which Fallout game is best for new players in the U.S.?
For new U.S. gamers, Fallout 4 is often recommended as the best starting point. It’s accessible, visually appealing, and packed with modern gameplay systems.
However, if you want a deeper role-playing experience with strong writing and player choice, Fallout: New Vegas is another excellent option. Both games represent Bethesda’s influence on the series in different ways.
11. Is Fallout available on modern platforms?
Yes. Most Bethesda-era Fallout games are available on modern platforms such as:
- PC (Steam, Microsoft Store)
- PlayStation 4 & 5
- Xbox One & Series X/S
- Mobile devices (Fallout Shelter)
Additionally, with Microsoft’s acquisition of Bethesda in 2021, many Fallout titles are available on Xbox Game Pass, making it easy for U.S. gamers to revisit the wasteland anytime.
12. What’s the legacy of Bethesda’s Fallout games?
Bethesda’s Fallout titles transformed the series from a niche RPG into a global pop culture phenomenon. They introduced millions of new players to the post-nuclear wasteland and gave rise to an entire generation of open-world RPGs that followed their design philosophy.
From Fallout 3’s emotional storytelling to Fallout 4’s expansive customization and Fallout 76’s evolving multiplayer experience, Bethesda continues to shape the future of the franchise.
Final Thoughts
So, how many Fallout games were made by Bethesda?
- Four developed directly by Bethesda Game Studios (Fallout 3, Fallout 4, Fallout Shelter, Fallout 76)
- One published by Bethesda Softworks (Fallout: New Vegas)
In total, Bethesda has been involved in five major Fallout games, with Fallout 5 on the horizon. Their creative vision has made the Fallout universe one of the most recognized and beloved in American gaming culture.
As fans across the U.S. eagerly await the next chapter, one thing is clear: Bethesda’s version of Fallout has forever changed how gamers experience life in the wasteland.
