Obsidian Entertainment CEO Eyes Shadowrun for Next Big Project
Obsidian Entertainment's CEO, Feargus Urquhart, has publicly expressed strong interest in developing a game based on Microsoft's Shadowrun IP. This revelation comes amidst the studio's current work on titles like Avowed and The Outer Worlds 2. Let's delve into why this relatively obscure franchise has caught the eye of the acclaimed RPG developer.
Urquhart's Shadowrun Enthusiasm
In a recent podcast interview, Urquhart was asked which non-*Fallout* Microsoft IP he'd most like to tackle. He didn't hesitate, declaring his love for Shadowrun. His interest stems from a long-standing personal appreciation for the franchise, going so far as to own multiple editions of the tabletop RPG sourcebooks. The acquisition of Activision further expanded Microsoft's game library, giving Obsidian even more options, but Shadowrun remains his top choice.Obsidian's Sequel Expertise
Obsidian has built a reputation for crafting compelling sequels within established RPG universes. While they’ve successfully created original IPs like Alpha Protocol and The Outer Worlds, their history is deeply rooted in expanding existing worlds, as seen in their work on Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic II, Neverwinter Nights 2, Fallout: New Vegas, and Dungeon Siege III. Urquhart himself has previously noted the inherent appeal of RPG sequels, allowing for continuous world-building and narrative expansion.
The Future of Shadowrun?
The Shadowrun franchise, initially launched as a tabletop RPG in 1989, boasts a rich history across various video game adaptations. While Harebrained Schemes has produced several Shadowrun games in recent years, including a 2022 remaster collection, a new, original entry is highly anticipated by fans. The last standalone title, Shadowrun: Hong Kong, debuted in 2015. Should Obsidian secure the license, their proven expertise in RPG development suggests a promising future for the franchise. The potential for a high-quality, modern Shadowrun game under Obsidian's guidance is undoubtedly exciting for long-time fans.
