The head of ZeniMax Online Studios, Rich Lambert, has expressed his desire to develop more games, expanding beyond their successful massively multiplayer online title, The Elder Scrolls Online. During an interview, Lambert emphasized his commitment to the ongoing success of The Elder Scrolls Online but also highlighted the strategic importance of diversifying the studio`s portfolio.
Before widespread cutbacks at Microsoft led to its cancellation, ZeniMax Online Studios was reportedly working on a new game, code-named Project Blackbird, which was described as a hybrid of Cyberpunk 2077 and Destiny.
Lambert stated, “I aspire to create more games. My work isn`t finished, and the team also shares this ambition. I have numerous concepts, and I hope we can reveal them eventually.”
He further elaborated, “Relying on a single product indefinitely isn`t sustainable. While we are fully dedicated to making ESO a thriving 30-year MMO, concentrating all efforts on one venture carries inherent risks.”
During the same interview, Lambert articulated an ambitious vision for ZeniMax Online Studios: to become the “most successful studio” within the entire ZeniMax group. He acknowledged the challenge, considering esteemed studios like Bethesda Game Studios, MachineGames, and id Software are part of the family, but expressed his desire for ZOS to achieve a similar revered status.
Lambert cited Bethesda Game Studios` impressive legacy and track record as something to emulate, stating, “That`s the path I want us to follow.”
The Elder Scrolls Online initially launched for PC in 2014, subsequently arriving on PS4 and Xbox One in 2015, and later on Xbox Series X|S and PS5 in 2021. Originally a subscription service, the game transitioned to a free-to-play model and has since attracted over 25 million players.
With over a decade in operation, The Elder Scrolls Online is a long-standing MMO, though not the longest. Blizzard`s iconic World of Warcraft, which has maintained a subscription model since its 2004 launch, has been online even longer. The Lord of the Rings Online debuted in 2007, and EverQuest surpasses both World of Warcraft and The Lord of the Rings Online in longevity.
Beyond the continuous support for The Elder Scrolls Online, Bethesda is also developing The Elder Scrolls 6, though its release date remains unannounced.