Persistent fan speculation regarding the relationship between Bethesda Game Studios and Obsidian Entertainment has led Todd Howard to clarify his position once again. Despite recurring theories that a professional grudge exists between the two studios due to the development of Fallout: New Vegas, Howard has confirmed that no such animosity is present.
Addressing the Speculation
The narrative that Howard holds a grudge against Obsidian has become a staple of community discussion for years. Howard has addressed these claims on multiple occasions, consistently denying the existence of any underlying conflict. As of July 2026, he continues to reiterate that there is no bad blood regarding the 2010 title.
The speculation appears to stem from the history of Fallout: New Vegas, which was developed by Obsidian Entertainment and published by Bethesda Softworks. While the game currently holds a Metacritic score of 84, the community has maintained a long-standing interest in the professional dynamics between the two companies involved in its creation.
The Current Stance
Howard’s recent comments serve as a direct response to the community's ongoing curiosity. By addressing the rumors, he aims to put to rest the idea that his professional history includes a secret rivalry or personal grievance against the developers of the game. For players who have followed the discourse surrounding the Fallout franchise, this confirmation serves as a formal rebuttal to theories that have circulated in forums and social media for over a decade.