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Wolfenstein, Elder Scrolls, Fallout, Dishonored – Bethesda has produced some of the most talked-about titles in games. MCV investigates the publisher’s impressive repertoire
In terms of commercial and critical success, there are few publishers that can match up to the creative output of Bethesda.
Founded in 1986, the company’s perhaps best-known IP, The Elder Scrolls, was established in 1994 with The Elder Scrolls: Arena. Four direct sequels followed, as well as numerous spin-offs, including last year’s The Elder Scrolls Online.
The fifth entry in the Elder Scrolls series, Skyrim, shipped seven million copies worldwide within its first week of release, generating revenue of around $450 million (306m). By mid-2013, the game had sold more than 20 million units.
Launched on April 4th 2014 on PC, The Elder Scrolls Online was the top-selling game in the UK individual retail charts for the week of its release, claiming second place in the All Formats chart. The game will see a second launch on PS4 and Xbox One this June, plus transitioning to free-to-play on PC.
Three other enduring hit franchises created decades ago will also see a return in the near future, thanks to Bethesda.
The follow-up to 2014’s Wolfenstein: The New Order – itself a continuation of the alt-history shooter IP created way back in 1981 – Wolfenstein: The Old Blood hits PC, PS4 and Xbox One on May 5th. The New Order was the 22nd-best-selling title of 2014 in the UK, and was a pleasant surprise, according to critics.
Beyond The Old Blood, Bethesda is hosting its inaugural press conference at this year’s E3 event.
A reboot of horror shooter series Doom has already been announced, and the upcoming game could see some gameplay demonstrated for the first time at the show.
Plus, 2015 marks five years since the last Fallout title, New Vegas – leading some observers to believe a Fallout 4 announcement may be in the works.
Fallout 3 Tranquility Lane Vault Boy
This second-edition timepiece is based on the world of Fallout 3’s fan-favourite virtual reality simulation mission, Tranquility Lane. The watch is plated in 43mm gold ion, complemented by a genuine leather band. Inside, the hands – literally, as they take the form of Fallout 3’s Vault Boy’s arms – boast battery-powered Japanese quartz movement. The watch is protected thanks to a scratch-resistant mineral crystal lens and 30-metre water resistance.
SRP: $60 (40)
Manufacturer: Bethesda
Distributor: Bethesda
Contact: 020 7389 1100
Skyrim Dead Man’s Drink Beer Glass
Inspired by the local tavern Dead Man’s Drink, which can be visited by The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim players exploring the virtual capital of Falkreath, this beer glass features the logo of the famous watering hole on both sides.
SRP: 12.99
Manufacturer: Gaya Entertainment
Distributor: Gaya Entertainment UK
Contact: hello@gamingmerchandiseuk.com
The Evil Within Asylum T-Shirt
This top displays artwork from the creepy asylum setting of Bethesda’s 2014 horror title, The Evil Within.
SRP: 15.99
Manufacturer: Gaya Entertainment
Distributor: Gaming Merchandise UK
Contact: hello@gamingmerchandiseuk.com
Doom Pain ElementalSix-Inch Plush
One of Doom’s most recognisable enemies, the Pain Elemental is more huggable than horrible in plush form.
SRP: 22.99
Manufacturer: The IP Factory
Distributor: Gaming Heads
Contact: customerservice@gamingheads.com
Wolfenstein: The New Order Cap
This headgear is branded with the logo of the 2014 Wolfenstein title. Not guaranteed to protect against headshots.
SRP: 24.99
Manufacturer: Gaya Entertainment
Distributor: Gaming Merchandise UK
Contact: hello@gamingmerchandiseuk.com
Dishonored:The Dunwall Archives
A companion publication to the 2012 game, this 212-page book includes art and text from throughout Dishonored’s world.
SRP: 29.99
Manufacturer: Dark Horse
Distributor: Diamond Comic Distributors UK
Contact: 01928 531 760
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Armour Wallet
Tri-folded, with a coin pouch and windowed pocket, this is the ideal vessel for Skyrim fans’ Septim coins.
SRP: 34.99
Manufacturer: Gaya Entertainment
Distributor: Gaming Merchandise UK
Contact: hello@gamingmerchandiseuk.com
Fallout Vault BoyBobbleheads
Fans of the post-apocalypse can gain +10 skill points thanks to these recreations of Fallout 3’s in-game collectables.
SRP: 16.99
Manufacturer: The IP Factory
Distributor: Gaming Heads
Contact: customerservice@gamingheads.com
