Pete Hines opens up about Bethesda exit

Former Bethesda executive Pete Hines has lamented how the developer changed towards the end of his time at the company in 2023.

Former Bethesda Softworks executive Pete Hines has opened up about his decision to leave the company, revealing he felt powerless as the studio he helped build began to change.

Hines, who spent decades at Bethesda working on major franchises such as The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and Fallout, officially retired in 2023 around the launch of Starfield.

However, he has now explained that his departure was driven by deeper concerns about the company’s direction.

In an interview with Firezide Chat, Hines said: “I just hit a point of yes, [Bethesda] needs me, and I am powerless to do what I think needs to be done. When I couldn’t protect it, and I saw how it was getting damaged and broken apart… I said I am not going to sit here and watch this happen.

“This is not when I wanted it to end or how I wanted it to end.”

The gaming developer also reflected on the period following Microsoft’s $7.5 billion acquisition of Bethesda’s parent company ZeniMax Media, suggesting the transition brought changes he struggled with.

Noting the support he received from Bethesda director Todd Howard, he said: “Every time Todd delayed Starfield, I thought… I’m here another eight months.”

While Hines stopped short of naming specific decisions or individuals, he questioned the authenticity of the wider organisation Bethesda became part of, saying it felt “not authentic and not genuine”.

Despite his criticisms, Hines maintained pride in Bethesda’s legacy, highlighting its long-standing commitment to delivering ambitious games and maintaining a strong connection with its audience.