# Bethesda game development priorities and Starfield insights > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/bethesda-game-development-priorities-and-starfield-insights > Updated: 2026-09-11T12:26:58.000Z. Sources: 14. Developments: 2. Former Bethesda veteran and lead systems designer Kurt Kuhlmann has provided insights into the studio’s development priorities and the production of Starfield. Kuhlmann stated that many developers expected development of The Elder Scrolls VI to begin immediately after Fallout 4, but resources were instead diverted toward Fallout 76 and Starfield. He noted that Todd Howard advocated for Starfield as an ambitious new IP, which delayed the next Elder Scrolls title until its active development began in 2023. Reflecting on the Starfield project, Kuhlmann suggested the title may not have aligned with Bethesda’s core strengths, as the team had to implement unfamiliar mechanics like space combat and vehicle systems. While the vision of a distinct space experience was executed, Kuhlmann remarked that the team lacked sufficient resources for the game’s expansive concept, stating, “We would have needed much more.” ## Timeline ### 2026-09-11: Bethesda designer reflects on Starfield's ambitious development Starfield lead systems designer Kurt Kuhlmann says the game's ambitious vision pushed Bethesda beyond its core strengths and required more content than the team could provide. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bethesda-designer-reflects-on-starfields-ambitious-development ### 2026-09-08: Bethesda veteran claims Starfield was prioritized over The Elder Scrolls VI Former Bethesda veteran Kurt Kuhlmann states that developers expected The Elder Scrolls VI to follow Fallout 4, but the studio prioritized Fallout 76 and Starfield instead. 10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bethesda-veteran-claims-starfield-was-prioritized-over-the-elder-scrolls-vi --- Cite as: Bethesda game development priorities and Starfield insights. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/bethesda-game-development-priorities-and-starfield-insights