Fallout: New Vegas Devs Want to Work on Obscure Series
Obsidian Entertainment CEO Eyes Shadowrun: A Cyberpunk-Fantasy RPG Revival?
Obsidian Entertainment's CEO, Feargus Urquhart, has publicly expressed strong interest in developing a game based on Microsoft's Shadowrun IP. This revelation follows a recent interview, sparking excitement among fans of the acclaimed RPG studio and the cyberpunk-fantasy franchise.
Urquhart's Shadowrun Enthusiasm
In a podcast interview with Tom Caswell, Urquhart was asked which non-Fallout Microsoft IP he'd most like to tackle. While currently occupied with projects like Avowed and The Outer Worlds 2, he clearly stated his preference for Shadowrun. He highlighted his long-standing appreciation for the franchise, even mentioning requesting a list of Microsoft IPs after the acquisition. The addition of Activision's vast library only broadened the possibilities, yet Shadowrun remained his top choice.
Obsidian's history showcases a talent for crafting compelling entries within established RPG universes. From Fallout: New Vegas to Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic II, their expertise in expanding existing worlds is well-documented. Urquhart himself has previously commented on the studio's preference for sequels, citing the inherent expandability of RPG settings.
While the specifics of Obsidian's vision for a Shadowrun game remain undisclosed, Urquhart's personal history as a long-time fan of the tabletop RPG—owning multiple editions—suggests a deep understanding and respect for the source material. Should the studio acquire the license, fans can anticipate a high-quality adaptation.
The Shadowrun Legacy: Awaiting a New Chapter
Shadowrun's journey is a rich tapestry woven from tabletop origins (1989) and various video game adaptations. Following the closure of FASA Corporation, the video game rights eventually landed with Microsoft. While Harebrained Schemes has produced several Shadowrun titles in recent years, including a 2022 remaster collection, a new, original entry remains highly anticipated by the community. The last standalone game, Shadowrun: Hong Kong, debuted in 2015, leaving a significant gap for a fresh experience.
