Obsidian studio design director Josh Sawyer, renowned for his contributions to iconic games such as 'Fallout: New Vegas,' 'Pillars of Eternity,' and 'Pentiment,' recently shared insights into his future creative ambitions. He emphasizes that his primary motivation for new projects is less about the game's theme and more about the collaborative team he works with. Sawyer expressed a long-held desire to create a game that mirrors the unique blend of historical fantasy and realism found in the 1992 RPG 'Darklands,' envisioning a spiritual successor if given the opportunity.
The Vision for a New Historical RPG
During a candid discussion on the Human Can Opener Podcast, Josh Sawyer, the creative force behind several celebrated video games, reflected on his accomplished career and hinted at his next potential endeavor. Having already fulfilled long-standing aspirations to develop a D&D game, a Fallout title, and a historical narrative game, Sawyer now looks toward a different kind of challenge. He stressed that a positive and supportive work environment is paramount to his creative process, stating that even a 'dream game' can become a 'nightmare' if the team dynamics are not right. While not fixated on a singular "dream game," Sawyer articulated a strong interest in crafting a spiritual successor to 'Darklands,' a distinctive historical fantasy role-playing game from the early 1990s set in 15th-century Germany. This project, he noted, would delve into a realistic portrayal of the era, akin to 'Kingdom Come: Deliverance,' a concept he recently explored in discussions about armor design. Sawyer indicated that such a project would require substantial investment, playfully suggesting he would pursue it if someone were willing to 'throw money at me to burn.' This potential venture has already sparked considerable excitement among fans and industry observers who eagerly anticipate Sawyer's unique approach to a game in this genre.
Sawyer's reflections highlight a crucial aspect of creative work: the human element. His emphasis on working with a compatible team resonates deeply in an industry often characterized by demanding production cycles. For players, the prospect of a 'Darklands'-inspired RPG from a visionary like Sawyer is tantalizing, suggesting a rich narrative and innovative gameplay that could push the boundaries of the genre. It reminds us that even seasoned creators continue to harbor ambitious ideas, and with the right support, these concepts can evolve into truly exceptional interactive experiences.
