Ex-Bethesda Dev Predicts Fallout 3 Remaster Will Enhance 'Not Good' Gun Combat

Author: Peyton May 06,2025

With the successful release of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, fans are eagerly anticipating which Bethesda game will be next in line for a remaster. Speculation is rife that Fallout 3 could be the next title to receive this treatment, especially after leaks surfaced in 2023. Bruce Nesmith, a designer on Fallout 3, has shared insights on how Bethesda might enhance this 2008 post-apocalyptic RPG.

Nesmith highlighted the need for improved gun combat in a potential Fallout 3 Remastered, noting that the original game's shooting mechanics were "not good." He suggested that the remaster could bring the shooting experience more in line with that of Fallout 4, which saw significant improvements in this area. "What did you see in Fallout 4? That will tell you what they felt was necessary to change from Fallout 3," Nesmith explained, emphasizing the advancements made in Fallout 4's gun combat.

Oblivion Remastered, developed by Virtuos using Unreal Engine 5, set a high bar with its extensive list of enhancements. Running at 4K resolution and 60 frames per second, it not only improved visuals but also revamped the leveling systems, character creation, combat animations, and in-game menus. Additionally, it introduced new dialogue, a proper third-person view, and advanced lip sync technology. These changes have been well-received, with some fans even suggesting that Oblivion Remastered could be considered a remake. Bethesda, however, has clarified their decision to opt for a remaster.

Nesmith believes that Fallout 3 Remastered would follow a similar path, incorporating significant improvements akin to those seen in Oblivion Remastered. He noted that the original Fallout 3 combat "didn’t hold up to shooters at the time" and anticipated that the remaster would integrate the enhancements made for Fallout 4. "Oblivion wasn’t just brought up to the 2011 version of Skyrim," he added, praising Oblivion Remastered as something that "exceeds the most recent graphics update in Skyrim," and even dubbing it "Oblivion 2.0."

Bethesda is currently juggling multiple projects, including The Elder Scrolls VI, potential expansions for Starfield, ongoing work on Fallout 76, and the Fallout TV show, which is set to explore New Vegas in its second season. With such a packed schedule, fans have much to look forward to in the coming years.

For those interested in diving deeper into Oblivion Remastered, we offer a comprehensive guide that includes an expansive Interactive Map, complete Walkthroughs for the Main Questline and every Guild Quest, tips on How to Build the Perfect Character, Things to Do First, every PC Cheat Code, and much more.

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