“Exciting New” IP Coming From The Elder Scrolls: Online Developers
ZeniMax Online Studios, the studio which developed The Elder Scrolls: Online, appears to be starting work on a secret new IP. A recent job listing posted by the studio online is the source of the rumour; ZeniMax Online is looking to hire a new Core Tech Programmer. Importantly, the role will “Join the team at ZOS and work on an exciting new IP!”
A New IP Coming From ZeniMax Online?
ZeniMax Online is one of several studios published by ZeniMax Media Inc., Bethesda Game Studios’ parent company. The company also publishes games from Id Software, Arkane Studios, MachineGames, and Tango Gameworks. ZeniMax Online is a bit different, however, in that it was specifically founded by ZeniMax to develop MMOs. It was founded in 2007, but has so far only developed a single title; The Elder Scrolls: Online. Th Elder Scrolls MMO has enjoyed great success since its launch in 2014 and is even now still getting regular content updates. However, it seems that ZeniMax Online may now be starting on something new.
The role of Core Tech Programmer is an integral one for a potential new project. Its first listed responsibility is to “Implement core engine tech”. Applicants must have at least 4 years of software development experience in the gaming industry, and have a; “strong technical knowledge of Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and PC”; suggesting that this new project will release on both major console platforms as well as PC. The only Desired Skill listed for the role is simply; “MMO development experience.”
It sounds very likely that ZeniMax’s new IP is another MMO. That would certainly make sense given their experience with The Elder Scrolls: Online. However, it remains to be seen what this new IP may be. Presumably, listing the game as a new IP rules out any existing Bethesda properties like Fallout. Could ZeniMax Online be working on a completely new MMO franchise? Fans will have to wait and see. Unfortunately, it’s likely that this new project is still in the earliest stages of development. As such, we’re unlikely to hear more for a long time.