XBOX’s Bethesda is creating a buzz among gamers with the teasing of a potential new game, which is expected to be revealed shortly. This mystery title is anticipated to revive a series that has been dormant since the 2010s, potentially offering Bethesda fans the long-awaited third installment they've been craving for the past eight years.
The latest hint comes from the MachineGames account on the social media platform X. In a recent post, the Swedish studio celebrated its 15th anniversary by expressing gratitude to its fans. Along with this message, the post featured a special graphic highlighting the games released since the studio's inception. While the most recent title showcased is Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, almost all other titles listed are from the Wolfenstein series. Notably, there’s a mysterious box following the Indiana Jones game, marked with a question mark, clearly hinting at an upcoming project.
Speculation abounds regarding the nature of this new project. Unless it’s a new intellectual property (IP), which seems unlikely for various reasons, there are two plausible options: a sequel to Indiana Jones and the Great Circle or a new installment in the Wolfenstein franchise. While a sequel to Indiana Jones could be a possibility, the hefty licensing fees involved may deter Xbox from pursuing such a venture, especially considering that the first game didn’t perform exceptionally well. Furthermore, it's essential to note that this project was initiated before Xbox acquired Bethesda, making it less likely to be prioritized.
More likely, MachineGames will return to its roots with a new Wolfenstein title. It has been six years since the last entry in the series, and the previous games released in 2019, namely Wolfenstein: Youngblood and Wolfenstein: Cyberpilot, failed to capture the audience's interest. The latter was a VR title with minimal impact, while Youngblood, a spin-off, was regarded as one of the worst games of that year. This poor reception raised concerns about the franchise's future.
The Wolfenstein series has likely been on hiatus for two primary reasons: the shifting political climate in recent years and its lackluster sales performance. Additionally, MachineGames has been occupied with the development of Indiana Jones. However, it's important to remember that the narratives introduced in 2014’s Wolfenstein: The New Order and 2017’s Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus remain incomplete. Many fans would be disappointed if the series does not make a comeback soon.
For what it’s worth, both MachineGames and Bethesda have consistently reassured fans that Wolfenstein III is in the pipeline; it’s merely a matter of when they will commit to delivering this promise. As excitement builds around the new tease, fans can only hope that the return of Wolfenstein is imminent, providing closure to the gripping story that has captivated audiences for years.
