Larian Making Fallout Would Be Great For Fans, Useless For Larian

In a recent interview, Swen Vincke, CEO of Larian Studios, expressed interest in developing a Fallout game, alongside Baldur's Gate and Ultima. While fans are thrilled at the prospect, especially after the success of the Fallout TV show, Vincke emphasized that Larian no longer needs another studio's IP to establish itself. The idea of Larian creating a Fallout game is enticing, especially for those craving a return to the choice-based, isometric design of the original games. Bethesda’s recent Fallout titles have moved away from this approach, focusing more on a first-person shooter experience. Though a Larian-made Fallout could rejuvenate the series and cater to long-time fans, Larian’s current success with Baldur's Gate 3 means they have the freedom to pursue their own creative projects. Despite this, the possibility of Larian lending its expertise to Fallout remains an exciting, if unlikely, prospect for RPG enthusiasts.

No Man's Sky Announces Worlds Part 1 Update, Will "Completely Refresh" The Universe

No Man's Sky creator Sean Murray has been teasing fans with planet emojis on social media, leading up to the announcement of the game's latest update, Worlds Part 1. This significant update promises to completely refresh the game's universe with new technology, gameplay, and discoveries.

The announcement came with a trailer, followed by a deep dive showcasing some of the transformative changes. Notably, new water technology has been introduced, enhancing ocean waves and reflections. Players will now experience oceans that react dynamically to weather and wind patterns, and ships can land on water surfaces, adding a new dimension to planetary exploration.

Hello Games has also upgraded the game's cloud technology, making skies more stunning and diverse. Players can look forward to more visually appealing flights through clouds and into space, with beautiful and varied skies greeting them upon landing.

The update introduces new volumetric weather systems, bringing immersive weather conditions such as rain, blizzards, and fog, which will create unique experiences on each planet. This, combined with the game's new technology, results in breathtaking moments like walking through stormy fields with trees and fauna swaying violently in the wind.

These advancements are partly thanks to the development of Hello Games' second major open-world title, Light No Fire. While a release date for Light No Fire remains unknown, the technology developed for it is already enhancing No Man's Sky.

In terms of gameplay, Worlds Part 1 will introduce a new "Starship Troopers-inspired" Expedition, focusing on combat and offering a fresh experience compared to previous missions. Additionally, new creatures will populate the universe for players to discover. Murray hinted that this is just the beginning, as the update is named Worlds Part 1, indicating more exciting updates to follow. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned to his Twitter for further teasers and updates.

Former Piranha Bytes Developers Discuss Studio Closure

Jenny and Björn Pankratz, former chief designers at Piranha Bytes, recently discussed the closure of their renowned German studio, known for titles like Gothic, Elex, and Risen. They cited the current economic downturn in the gaming industry as a significant factor. Contractually tied to THQ Nordic and Embracer until June 2024, they maintained silence until now.

Recently, the Pankratzes announced the formation of Pithead Studio, aiming to develop indie games. Despite the closure, they remain optimistic about their new venture. The rights to Gothic, Risen, and Elex remain with Embracer, and Piranha Bytes has no involvement with the upcoming Gothic remake by Alkimia Interactive in Barcelona.

The gaming industry has seen massive layoffs, including at Embracer, which acquired Piranha Bytes in 2019. Björn expressed the emotional toll of the studio's end after over 20 years, stating that starting anew with Pithead Studio seemed the best option. Pithead Studio's projects will differ significantly from Piranha Bytes' work, focusing on more compact and immersive experiences.

While a Gothic 5 from Pithead Studio is unlikely due to rights and lack of interest, the new studio plans to leverage its strengths and maintain its unique charm. The future for the former Piranha Bytes leaders is uncertain but promising, and fans eagerly await updates on their upcoming endeavors.

How Far Along is The Witcher 4? Developer Provides a Small Update

The next installment in The Witcher series, tentatively titled Project Polaris, is inching closer to production, according to CD Projekt Red's Associate Game Director Paweł Sasko. While a release date remains distant, this progress marks a significant step for the Polish developer, who is also working on Cyberpunk 2077's sequel and a remake of the first Witcher game.

Polaris, set to kick off a new saga rather than being called The Witcher 4, is predominantly developed in Poland by a team of over 400 people. The game is expected to enter the production phase this year, a stage typically involving the extensive implementation of established mechanics, style, and script.

In comparison, The Witcher 3 took approximately three and a half years to develop, while Cyberpunk 2077 entered pre-production in 2016 and was released in December 2020.

Other projects include Project Orion, the next game in the Cyberpunk universe, which will primarily be developed in Boston. Project Sirius, a multiplayer title in The Witcher universe, is also being developed in Boston by Molasses Flood, a studio acquired by CDPR. Meanwhile, Canis Majoris, the codename for The Witcher 1 remake, is being handled by Fool’s Theory, in cooperation with CDPR.

All these projects, except Polaris, are still in the early stages of development, indicating their release dates are several years away. CDPR's CEO has previously stated that three new Witcher games are expected within the next six years, by 2029.