Bethesda could be planning to bring back the original Quake in some way, as hints of a new version have popped up on various fronts, including game rating boards. While it"s now a part of Microsoft, Bethesda seems to be bringing this release to PlayStation and Nintendo platforms alongside PC and Xbox.
Both the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) and, as Gematsu spotted, the Game Rating Administration Committee of Korea now have new ratings set for this version of the hit 1996-released shooter developed by id Software.
The description on the ESRB website is not very helpful about what could be new on this release, as it simply describes the iconic maze-like environments and gore elements, which were already seen on the original, before giving the title a Mature rating. This is, however, where the aforementioned broad launch platforms are displayed.
Moreover, an earlier version of the QuakeCon 2021 schedule had information on a Quake "revitalized edition" that is yet to be announced, which also said Machine Games is providing additional content for this version. It doesn"t stop there, as the Steam version of the original Quake has been quietly receiving updates to its Beta branch since yesterday, and even mentions a "rerelease" folder. We could see this version being offered for free to current owners.
Remaster or rerelease, in any case, neither Bethesda nor id have announced anything related to a new Quake project just yet. But, that may change later today during QuakeCon 2021, which begins at 2pm ET with a special session celebrating the original Quake"s 25th anniversary with id Software and MachineGames.
UPDATE: The Microsoft Store has spilled the beans on this new release of Quake, which comes with enhancements, a new expansion and more. Expect the official announcement and launch later today.