As Interplay shakes its pockets in a desperate search for its last coppers, it has struck a deal enabling the company to earn at least some royalties by franchising its most lucrative series – Fallout. This arrangement will see Bethesda Software exclusively developing and publishing Fallout 3, as well as any possible follow-ups. Interplay will however retain the online Fallout IP, meaning that if its fortunes are reversed, CEO Herve Caen may be able to go ahead with his ambitious plans for a Fallout MMORPG.

This is good news for all parties concerned. Interplay will have a vital source of revenue; Bethesda will have acquired an internationally popular name; and, perhaps most importantly, Fallout fans will be able to rest assured that there is life left in the series. Indeed, Bethesda’s previous RPG projects have met reassuringly high standards with Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind receiving many accolades. It all bodes well for Fallout 3.

As soon as a release date is announced, or if there is any mention of other Fallout projects, we’ll let you know.