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.

Beyond Fallout: A Shadowrun Opportunity?

In a podcast interview with Tom Caswell, Urquhart was asked which non-Fallout Microsoft IP he'd most like to tackle. While Obsidian is currently immersed in projects like *Avowed* and *The Outer Worlds 2*, Urquhart didn't hesitate to name Shadowrun as his top choice. He highlighted his long-standing appreciation for the franchise, stating, "I love Shadowrun. I think it’s super cool." This enthusiasm stems from his personal history with the game, even owning multiple editions of the tabletop RPG. The acquisition of Activision by Microsoft only broadened the possibilities, but Shadowrun clearly stands out.

Obsidian's reputation is built on its knack for crafting compelling sequels and expanding existing game worlds, showcasing their mastery in RPG development. From Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic II and Fallout: New Vegas to The Outer Worlds, their expertise is undeniable. Urquhart himself previously explained this preference, stating in a 2011 interview that RPGs lend themselves well to sequels due to the inherent expandability of their worlds and storylines.

While the specifics of Obsidian's vision for a Shadowrun game remain undisclosed, the prospect of their involvement has ignited considerable anticipation. The studio's proven ability to handle established universes assures fans that Shadowrun would be in exceptionally capable hands.

Shadowrun's Past and Potential Future

Shadowrun, originally launched in 1989 as a tabletop RPG, boasts a rich history with numerous video game adaptations. Following FASA Corporation's closure, the video game rights were acquired by Microsoft, leading to various iterations over the years. Harebrained Schemes has contributed significantly to the Shadowrun video game legacy in recent years. However, a new, original entry remains highly sought after by fans, with Shadowrun: Hong Kong (2015) being the most recent standalone title. While remastered versions were released in 2022, the demand for a fresh Shadowrun experience persists. The potential collaboration with Obsidian could be the answer to this long-standing desire.