A recent trademark filing by Bethesda’s parent company, ZeniMax, has sparked speculation about a potential monster hunting game from the renowned developer. With the growing popularity of the Monster Hunter franchise in recent years, many prominent gaming studios have shown interest in exploring the “giant monster” genre. Earlier this year, EA released Wild Hearts, their own take on the genre, blending towering monsters with technological weaponry. Now, the filing of a new trademark suggests that Bethesda might be venturing into this popular genre as well.
While Bethesda is not typically associated with the monster hunting genre, the developer has made significant strides with its other franchises. The highly anticipated Starfield, Bethesda’s first AAA in-house game since Fallout 76 in 2018, is slated for release later this year. Additionally, the studio has reportedly been working on The Elder Scrolls 6, the next installment in the beloved RPG franchise, for several years, with its initial reveal dating back to 2018. Now, it appears that a new IP could be in the works from this fan-favorite developer.
The recently filed trademark by ZeniMax features the phrase “GIANT MONSTER NEWS.” Although little information is available about the title or the project it may be associated with, speculations abound that it could mark Bethesda’s entry into the monster hunting genre. Notably, Bethesda had previously filed a trademark for the same phrase several years ago, but no details about the project were ever disclosed. While some speculate that the game could finally be unveiled at Microsoft’s Xbox Games Showcase, Bethesda has not provided any official confirmation.
Diversifying its portfolio is not a new endeavor for Bethesda, as evidenced by previous ventures like Starfield. In recent years, the studio has expanded its publishing activities to include a range of new IPs, including this year’s major releases such as Hi-Fi Rush and Redfall. However, Starfield’s forthcoming launch will mark the first in-house game developed by Bethesda outside of the Elder Scrolls and Fallout franchises since IHRA Drag Racing in 2006. Fans can expect more information about Starfield during Xbox’s June showcase.
Bethesda’s potential entry into the monster hunting genre would occur amidst fierce competition from established titles like Monster Hunter and its contemporaries. Last summer, Monster Hunter Rise introduced its first major expansion, Sunbreak, adding substantial content to the already immensely successful game. Capcom also recently announced the expansion of the franchise to mobile devices with Monster Hunter Now. As fans eagerly await further details, it remains to be seen what Bethesda has in store for their “GIANT MONSTER NEWS” project.
