According to a developer from the Starfield team, The Elder Scrolls 6 won’t see a major increase in team size. In contrast to Rockstar’s massive development headcount for GTA 6, Bethesda is expected to maintain its smaller, focused approach. This insight comes from recent developer commentary highlighting the studio’s preference for consistent workflows and tight-knit teams.
Elder Scrolls 6 won’t match GTA 6’s team size
The statement compares Bethesda’s current staffing to Rockstar’s reportedly 1,500+ developers working on Grand Theft Auto 6. While praising the output of such a large team, the Starfield developer noted that Bethesda is unlikely to follow suit. The company prefers a different model, one built on collaboration within compact departments.
New statements from Rockstar employees about GTA 6, which has been patiently and curiously awaited for years: "Leaks are fun to read".
Bethesda aims for creative consistency
Despite fan expectations surrounding The Elder Scrolls 6, Bethesda seems intent on keeping things manageable. The team structure used during Starfield’s development will likely carry forward. This helps maintain a steady workflow, avoids internal sprawl, and preserves creative identity, a key part of how Bethesda has always operated.
Elder Scrolls 6 is still in the early stages of development
As of now, the game remains in pre-production. There’s no confirmed release window, and details are scarce. Still, this update from the Starfield team offers a glimpse into Bethesda’s mindset and how it plans to approach its next big title. Rather than expanding rapidly, they appear to be doubling down on their core methodology.
Rockstar’s model is seen as impressive, not a blueprint
While the Starfield dev praised Rockstar’s ability to stay consistent with such a massive staff, they were clear that Bethesda doesn’t plan to replicate that model. Instead, they admire it from afar and stay focused on their way of doing things. It’s not about size, it’s about sustaining quality with the tools and team you trust.
Elder Scrolls 6 team size reflects studio culture
Bethesda’s decision isn’t about limitations—it reflects how the studio likes to work. A smaller team allows for tighter integration across departments, faster feedback loops, and clearer direction. That philosophy has shaped every Elder Scrolls game before it, and it seems the next one will be no different.
