It’s no secret that Redfall, the vampire-themed game from Arkane Austin, didn’t make a big splash with players when it launched earlier this year. However, Bethesda, the game’s publisher, isn’t ready to give up on it just yet.
In a recent statement, marketing executive Pete Hines assured fans that Bethesda is committed to improving the game, in part because they envision players enjoying it on Xbox Game Pass even ten years from now.
Hines acknowledged that they are always learning and striving to meet player expectations. He pointed out that previous Bethesda titles, such as The Elder Scrolls Online and Fallout 76, didn’t have perfect launches but have since improved and found success.
Regarding Redfall, Hines emphasized that despite its rocky start, it’s still a fun game, and Bethesda is determined to make it even better. Plans include achieving a smoother 60fps experience and ensuring that it becomes a genuinely enjoyable game.
The Game Pass Factor
One significant reason Bethesda is sticking with Redfall is Game Pass. The belief is that putting in the effort to enhance the game now will pay off in the long run.
Hines explained that as a first-party studio, Game Pass ensures a game’s enduring presence. Even a decade from now, newcomers to Game Pass will have the opportunity to explore and enjoy Redfall.
Reports suggest that not all developers at Arkane Austin fully embraced the concept of Redfall, contributing to a significant talent exodus from the studio. In contrast, Arkane’s team in Lyon, France, is renowned for their work on the highly acclaimed Dishonored series.
Bethesda released a substantial 1.1 update for Redfall in June, addressing numerous issues and implementing various improvements. This showcases the company’s dedication to making the game better.
Lessons Learned
Xbox boss Matt Booty also commented on the situation, expressing the belief that Redfall would have had a more positive reception at launch. He noted that sometimes teams can become overly focused on their project, while management can lose sight of crucial details. It was a case of misjudgment, but the team’s unwavering commitment to their creation played a part in it.
Bethesda’s commitment to Redfall demonstrates their dedication to delivering a quality gaming experience. With an eye on the future and the potential of Game Pass, they’re determined to turn Redfall into a game that players can enjoy for years to come.
