Obscure Game Series Revived by Fallout: New Vegas Devs

Obsidian Entertainment CEO Eyes Shadowrun: A Cyberpunk-Fantasy RPG Revival?

Obsidian's CEO, Feargus Urquhart, has publicly expressed strong interest in developing a game based on Microsoft's lesser-known IP, Shadowrun. This revelation follows an interview where he was asked about potential Xbox projects outside of the Fallout franchise. While currently occupied with titles like Avowed and The Outer Worlds 2, Urquhart clearly sees Shadowrun as a compelling opportunity.

Urquhart's Shadowrun Enthusiasm

In a recent podcast interview, Urquhart stated his love for Shadowrun, calling it "super cool." He revealed he requested a list of Microsoft IPs after the acquisition, and despite the expanded library following the Activision merger, Shadowrun stands out as his top choice. His personal history with the franchise further solidifies his interest; he's owned multiple editions of the tabletop RPG since its initial release.

Obsidian's Track Record with Existing IPs

Obsidian has a proven history of successfully developing sequels and expanding upon existing game worlds. From their work on titles like Fallout: New Vegas and Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II, their expertise in enriching established RPG universes is undeniable. This experience makes them a strong contender for a potential Shadowrun revival. Urquhart himself highlighted this in a previous interview, noting the inherent advantages of working with existing RPG worlds.

The Future of Shadowrun?

While the specifics of Obsidian's vision for a Shadowrun game remain undisclosed, the studio's expertise and Urquhart's personal passion suggest a promising future for the franchise. The community's desire for a new, high-quality Shadowrun experience is considerable, with the last major standalone title, Shadowrun: Hong Kong, released in 2015. Remastered versions of older games arrived in 2022, but a fresh, original entry is highly anticipated.

Shadowrun's Past and Present

Shadowrun, initially launched as a tabletop RPG in 1989, boasts a rich history and multiple video game adaptations. Following the closure of FASA Corporation, the video game rights ended up with Microsoft after their acquisition of FASA Interactive in 1999. While Harebrained Schemes has produced several Shadowrun games in recent years, a new, original title remains a highly sought-after prospect among fans.