In the wake of recent Xbox layoffs, Obsidian Entertainment Director Brandon Adler has voiced strong disapproval regarding external commentary on the studio’s identity. Taking to LinkedIn, Adler expressed frustration with what he termed “cold take artists” who are “running their mouths” about how the beloved RPG developer has supposedly changed. His remarks underscore a difficult period for the studio, following significant workforce reductions across Microsoft’s gaming division.
Obsidian Director Addresses Post-Layoff Speculation
Obsidian Entertainment’s director, Brandon Adler, a key figure behind games like The Outer Worlds 2 and another undisclosed project, recently expressed his irritation with public speculation concerning the studio’s post-layoff state. In a candid LinkedIn post, Adler acknowledged the profound difficulty of the preceding week, marked by substantial workforce reductions. After extending farewells to departing colleagues, he directly challenged those “coming out of the woodwork” to opine on what Obsidian “is or what it isn’t,” particularly focusing on criticisms that the studio has lost its former essence. His message highlighted the emotional toll of such a period, compounded by what he perceives as ill-informed public discourse.
Challenging Misinformation and Uninformed Opinions
Adler specifically took aim at individuals he described as “cold take artists” for spreading “enormous amount of misinformation” about Obsidian. He criticized the frequent assertions that the studio is “not who they used to be,” especially from those lacking genuine understanding of the team’s history. According to Adler, many commentators are unaware of the specific contributions of individuals to past titles or the continuity of talent within the studio. He emphasized that such remarks are not only often incorrect but also undermine the hard work and dedication of the current development team, fostering an environment of negativity based on flawed assumptions rather than informed insight into game development processes.
The Broader Impact of Xbox Layoffs
Obsidian was one of numerous studios affected by Microsoft’s extensive layoffs, which were announced as the most significant restructuring in the gaming company’s history. These widespread cuts led to 1,600 immediate job losses, with further reductions anticipated throughout the fiscal year. This major upheaval impacted several high-profile developers, including Ninja Theory, Undead Labs, ZeniMax Online, and id Software. While some studios saw changes in ownership or confirmed their continued independence, others, like Obsidian, reportedly faced substantial reductions to their teams. This industry-wide instability created a challenging climate, setting the stage for Adler’s defensive comments regarding his studio’s perceived changes.
Obsidian’s Enduring Creative DNA
Despite the recent workforce changes, Adler firmly asserts that Obsidian’s core creative identity and talent remain intact. He highlighted that many individuals in lead and director roles are the same professionals who significantly contributed to celebrated titles such as The Outer Worlds, Pillars of Eternity, and Fallout: New Vegas. Adler explicitly stated, “Like, literally the same people,” drawing a clear lineage from early successes like KotOR2 to the studio’s current projects. This continuity of expertise, he argues, ensures that the fundamental creative spirit and design philosophy that define Obsidian’s beloved RPGs continue to thrive, underscoring a deep-rooted and consistent development ethos.
Embracing Evolution While Honoring Legacy
Adler readily acknowledges that Obsidian, like any dynamic entity, is not exactly the same as it was two decades ago. He stated, “No, of course not. Nothing stays the same.” However, he strongly emphasizes that the studio’s inherent “DNA” — its foundational principles and creative drive — remains steadfast. This core identity is what he attributes to the success of iconic games such as KotOR, Fallout: New Vegas, Neverwinter Nights 2, and South Park: The Stick of Truth. Adler expressed immense pride in Obsidian’s rich history while simultaneously conveying excitement and optimism for the studio’s present form and future direction, balancing adaptation with an enduring creative spirit.
A Plea for Informed Discourse
In concluding his message, Adler urged the gaming community to exercise discernment regarding the information they consume about Obsidian. He emphasized that individuals “spouting off” about the studio’s current state versus its past often possess “zero insight into how a game is made and who contributed to our previous games.” Adler’s plea serves as a reminder that behind every game are dedicated professionals, and external commentary, particularly when uninformed, can be damaging. He advocates for a more thoughtful and respectful dialogue, encouraging critics to consider the genuine perspectives and contributions of those within the development process rather than relying on superficial observations.
Obsidian’s Future and a Return to Fallout
Amidst these challenges, Obsidian Entertainment continues to move forward with ambitious projects. The studio is actively developing The Outer Worlds 2, alongside other unannounced titles. Notably, recent reports from Bloomberg suggest a significant shift in Obsidian’s roadmap: a planned sequel for their fantasy RPG, Avowed, has reportedly been cancelled, making way for a return to the beloved Fallout universe. This new Fallout game is said to be under the direction of Josh Sawyer, a veteran who previously helmed the critically acclaimed Fallout: New Vegas. This exciting development has sparked immense anticipation among fans, reigniting discussions about potential new settings. Many speculate about the possibility of an official *Fallout* game exploring iconic cities outside of North America, pondering how locations like London, Tokyo, or Sydney might translate into the series’ distinctive post-apocalyptic landscape, a fascinating prospect that could dramatically expand the franchise’s world-building.
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