Rumor: Bethesda to Purchase the STALKER Franchise

Details: Created on Tuesday, July 31, 2012 12:40 PM PDT; Written by King Mika

RUMOR: Bethesda Softworks is considering purchasing the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. franchise from GSC founder Sergei Grigorovich. This deal would also grant them the rights of all associated merchandise and titles in the series.

Another rumor has Grigorovich retaining the rights to S.T.A.L.K.E.R. books, films, merchandise and everything else.

FACTS: As you might have read, GSC Game World, the developers of the popular S.T.A.L.K.E.R. franchise was shut down last year due to financial issues. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 was canceled with the shut down, but was later revived by GSC Game World, only to be canceled again.

When asked to comment on this rumor, Bethesda replied, "we don't comment on rumour or speculation." Whatever the case... S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 was well into development. It's unknown if Bethesda could continue development of that title, or reboot development with their own engine.

OPINIONS: It would be foolish for a company like Bethesda to pass up on the opportunity to own a popular post-apocalyptic franchise such as S.T.A.L.K.E.R.