Fallout: New Vegas Devs Want to Work on Obscure Series

Obsidian Entertainment CEO Eyes Shadowrun Development

The CEO of Obsidian Entertainment, 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.

Beyond Fallout

In a recent podcast interview, Urquhart was asked which non-*Fallout* Microsoft franchise he'd prefer to tackle. He immediately highlighted Shadowrun, stating his admiration for the franchise and revealing that he specifically requested a list of Microsoft IPs following the acquisition. While acknowledging the expanded options following Microsoft's acquisition of Activision, he clearly favored Shadowrun above all others.

A Legacy of Sequels

Obsidian has a proven track record of developing compelling sequels within established franchises (Fallout: New Vegas, Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II, etc.). Although they've successfully created original IPs (Alpha Protocol, The Outer Worlds), their expertise in expanding existing universes is undeniable. Urquhart himself has previously commented on the advantages of working within established RPG worlds, emphasizing the potential for ongoing narrative development.

The Future of Shadowrun

While the specifics of Obsidian's vision for a Shadowrun game remain unclear, Urquhart's long-standing passion for the tabletop RPG—owning multiple editions of the sourcebook—suggests a deep understanding and respect for the source material. Should Obsidian secure the license, fans can anticipate a high-quality adaptation in capable hands.

Shadowrun's Past and Present

Originating as a tabletop RPG in 1989, Shadowrun boasts a rich history and multiple video game iterations. Following the acquisition of FASA Interactive by Microsoft in 1999, the video game rights remained with Microsoft. While Harebrained Schemes has produced several Shadowrun games recently, including remastered versions in 2022, the community eagerly awaits a new, original entry. The last standalone title, Shadowrun: Hong Kong, launched in 2015, leaving a significant gap for a fresh, Obsidian-developed experience.