Obsidian Game Director Addresses Feedback from Commentators After Recent Job Cuts

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Obsidian Game Director Addresses Feedback from Commentators After Recent Job Cuts

**Obsidian Entertainment: Facing Challenges and Opportunities During Change**

Obsidian Entertainment recently garnered attention with the launch of three significant titles: *Avowed*, *Grounded 2* (Early Access), and *The Outer Worlds 2*, all within the same calendar year. Nonetheless, the studio has encountered considerable challenges following a round of mass layoffs throughout Microsoft’s gaming division. Reports suggest that around 1,600 positions were eliminated, with further layoffs anticipated. One of the consequences of these changes was a decrease in Obsidian’s workforce by 50 employees, resulting in a shift in development focus, including a move away from a sequel to *Avowed* to concentrate on a new *Fallout* game.

Amid these changes, Brandon Adler, game director for *The Outer Worlds 2*, took to LinkedIn to share his thoughts on the hardships the studio is experiencing. He expressed the emotional impact of bidding farewell to skilled developers and close friends, underscoring the abilities and professionalism of those departing. His remarks highlight the close-knit community that thrives within Obsidian, reinforcing the caliber of talent that is now pursuing new opportunities in the industry.

Adler also spoke to the misunderstandings regarding Obsidian’s current condition and its growth over the years. He pointed out the widespread misinformation arising from public discussions, where individuals lacking a clear perspective of the studio’s history claim that Obsidian has lost its essence. He reassured fans that the core team behind acclaimed titles such as *The Outer Worlds*, *Pillars of Eternity*, and *Fallout: New Vegas* remains primarily intact, with many of the same individuals contributing to the studio’s present projects.

Reflecting on the studio’s transformations, Adler recognized that while some elements may have changed over two decades, the foundational “DNA” of Obsidian persists. He stressed the pride the team has in its legacy while remaining enthusiastic about its ongoing evolution and new paths.

Reports from *Bloomberg* indicate that Obsidian was heavily invested in a sequel to *Avowed* before the layoffs necessitated a reevaluation of focus towards a new *Fallout* game. However, it seems that work on the new *Avowed* will progress simultaneously. Additionally, the studio is working on multiple projects, one of which shares thematic connections with the *Fallout* series, now under the direction of design director Josh Sawyer.

These changes reflect a larger strategic shift by Xbox, which is aiming to optimize operations around its most thriving franchises. Xbox intends to speed up production timelines for major titles like *Halo* and *Fallout*, indicating a departure from the previous Game Pass-focused strategy that encouraged a variety of projects.

As the game development landscape continues to evolve, Obsidian Entertainment finds itself at a pivotal junction. While it faces the repercussions of layoffs and adjusted project priorities, it also boasts a resilient core ready to adapt and prosper amid these challenges. The commitment of its development team, combined with a rich history of creating cherished games, positions Obsidian for future advancement and success in an ever-changing gaming industry.

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Game Aiming to Avoid GTA 6 Launch Moves Release from Crowded September to Similarly Crowded October
Game Aiming to Avoid GTA 6 Launch Moves Release from Crowded September to Similarly Crowded October

### The Impending Release Scenario: Valor Mortis and a Busy October

With the gaming community buzzing in excitement for the launch of *Grand Theft Auto 6* later this year, the pre-release phase is shaping up to be a tumultuous time, brimming with competitive game debuts. Recently, the creators of *Valor Mortis*, a first-person action title set against a historical backdrop featuring Napoleon and zombie-like beings, revealed a postponement of their launch from September to October 13, 2023.

The choice to alter the release date was made in response to a jam-packed September overflowing with prominent titles. On June 11, the *Valor Mortis* team addressed their decision on social media, noting that September had become “incredibly filled with amazing-looking games.” They expressed their intent to afford both the game and players’ finances some breathing space, mentioning that the scheduling of their involvement in a Partner Showcase had secured their initial launch date weeks prior.

Their announcement carried a hint of humor; the studio shared a gif showing a hapless character facing a dire fate, stating, “Live footage of us attempting to locate a clear release date in Fall 2026.” This reflects the predicament many developers are currently facing in this competitive gaming arena.

Alongside the delay, the *Valor Mortis* team has made a demo available on Steam, enabling players to sample the game ahead of its official debut. Even with the move to October, the month does not seem to provide much relief, as it too is becoming crowded with other significant launches.

#### A Busy October

Here is a compilation of titles scheduled to debut around the same time as *Valor Mortis*:

– **October 6**: *Gears of War: E-Day*
– **October 6**: *Star Wars: Galactic Racer*
– **October 8**: *Kingdom Hearts 1-3* (Switch 2 ports)
– **October 9**: *Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen*
– **October 13**: **Valor Mortis**
– **October 13**: *Planet Zoo 2*
– **October 13**: *Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse*
– **October 13**: *Toy Story Retro Round Up / Toy Story 3 Remaster*
– **October 16**: *Tales of Eternia Remastered*
– **October 22**: *Final Fantasy Resonance*
– **October 22**: *Nintendo Switch Sports Resort*

The list distinctly illustrates the rivalry *Valor Mortis* will confront shortly after its revised release date. As the industry maneuvers through this chaotic landscape, the chance for additional delays exists as publishers evaluate the hazards of launching their titles in such close quarters, particularly with major titles like *GTA 6* on the horizon.

This game of musical chairs regarding release dates will likely persist as developers strive to evade a saturation point that could undermine their game’s visibility and sales. For fans and gamers, this signifies an exciting yet challenging period ahead as more games flood the market in the months leading up to the highly awaited release of *Grand Theft Auto 6*.

"Marvel Rivals Unveils New Character with Size Constraints on Game Map"
“Marvel Rivals Unveils New Character with Size Constraints on Game Map”

### Devil Dinosaur Joins Marvel Rivals: A Distinctive Addition with Constraints

Devil Dinosaur is the newest character unveiled in the game **Marvel Rivals**, representing a thrilling enhancement to the lineup of heroes. Recognized for his massive, hefty physique, this red dinosaur is a unique presence in a game largely populated by humanoid fighters. Nevertheless, players have swiftly identified a major drawback: Devil Dinosaur’s size often hinders his ability to traverse certain sections of the game’s maps.

#### Navigational Obstacles

Players taking on the role of Devil Dinosaur have noticed that his size poses challenges in gameplay. In particular, when attempting to move down staircases, his large head tends to get stuck, preventing him from following other characters into various pathways. This restriction has given rise to “safe zones,” where adversaries can evade encounters, highlighting a vulnerability for those controlling Devil Dinosaur. Considering this unintentional design issue, there is speculation regarding whether the developers at NetEase will rectify the situation in forthcoming patches, possibly by resizing him or introducing extra mobility features such as a crouch option.

#### Initial Player Feedback

Responses on social media have underscored the comedic aspect of these navigational blunders. Players have posted clips demonstrating the challenges of directing Devil Dinosaur through narrow areas, often resulting in humorous situations. Alongside the funny aspects, the gameplay also offers a distinctive experience with his mechanics; for instance, his melee strikes are performed from behind, creating a unique animation where he seems to “twerk” while defeating adversaries with his tail.

#### Conversations and Interactions

Devil Dinosaur’s character adds an extra layer of enjoyment through his unique dialogue, which is mainly composed of roars and grunts. This straightforward yet effective communication leads to entertaining exchanges with other characters, like Jeff the Land Shark, further enhancing the game’s jovial ambiance.

#### Collaboration Mechanics

Emphasizing absurdity, Devil Dinosaur possesses a team-up ability with the Punisher, permitting the gunslinger to ride on his back. This design choice bolsters the game’s light-hearted tone, making the overall experience more enjoyable and less serious.

#### Background and Connections

As the 50th hero introduced in **Marvel Rivals**, Devil Dinosaur occupies a special niche in the vast Marvel universe. Although he might not have the same level of mainstream fame as characters like Spider-Man, he does have a devoted following, particularly among readers acquainted with his comic escapades alongside Moon Girl. Interestingly, while Moon Girl won’t be a playable character in the game—probably due to age rating issues—she will still feature in Devil Dinosaur’s lore, appearing in voice lines and content when Season 8 commences.

### Conclusion

Devil Dinosaur’s debut in **Marvel Rivals** brings both thrill and challenges. While players enjoy his distinctive gameplay mechanics and amusing interactions, the character’s size poses strategic limitations that can be capitalized on by opponents. As the gaming community looks ahead, there is anticipation for potential modifications from NetEase to better balance this fierce yet charming dinosaur hero’s role in the competitive setting of **Marvel Rivals**.