Fallout Devs Eye Revival of Forgotten Franchise

Obsidian Entertainment CEO Eyes Shadowrun: A New Chapter for a Cyberpunk Fantasy Classic?

Obsidian Entertainment's CEO, Feargus Urquhart, has publicly expressed strong interest in developing a game based on Microsoft's lesser-known Shadowrun IP. This revelation follows a recent interview, shedding light on why this cyberpunk-fantasy franchise has caught the eye of the acclaimed RPG studio.

Urquhart's Shadowrun Ambitions

Beyond Fallout: A New Frontier

In a podcast interview with Tom Caswell, Urquhart was asked which non-Fallout Xbox IP he'd most like to tackle. While Obsidian is currently occupied with projects like *Avowed* and *The Outer Worlds 2*, Urquhart's enthusiasm for Shadowrun was undeniable. He declared his fondness for the franchise, revealing that he'd specifically requested a list of Microsoft IPs after the acquisition, ultimately settling on Shadowrun as his top choice.

Obsidian's history is deeply rooted in developing compelling entries within established RPG universes, from Fallout: New Vegas to Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II. While they've successfully created original IPs like Alpha Protocol and The Outer Worlds, their expertise in expanding existing worlds is well-documented. Urquhart previously explained this preference, noting the inherent advantages of working within an already-rich setting.

The specifics of Obsidian's Shadowrun vision remain undisclosed. However, Urquhart's long-standing personal connection to the tabletop RPG – he owns multiple editions of the rulebook – suggests a deep understanding and passion for the source material. Should Obsidian secure the license, fans can anticipate a high-quality adaptation in capable hands.

Shadowrun's Past and Future

Shadowrun's history is rich and complex, mirroring the intricate world it depicts. Originating as a tabletop RPG in 1989, it has seen numerous video game iterations. While the tabletop rights have changed hands several times, the video game rights remained with Microsoft following its acquisition of FASA Interactive.

Harebrained Schemes has produced several Shadowrun games in recent years, but the community eagerly anticipates a fresh, original entry. The last standalone title, Shadowrun: Hong Kong, launched in 2015. While remastered versions were released in 2022, the demand for a new Shadowrun experience persists. Obsidian's potential involvement could potentially fulfill this long-standing desire.