**Obsidian Entertainment Faces Challenges Amid Layoffs: A Shift Towards Fallout**
Recently, Obsidian Entertainment, the studio behind acclaimed titles such as *Avowed* and *The Outer Worlds 2*, experienced significant upheaval with approximately a quarter of their workforce being laid off due to mass layoffs at Microsoft. This move has prompted discussions around the studio’s direction, especially as reports emerge that they are pivoting towards the development of a new *Fallout* game, led by *New Vegas* director Josh Sawyer, effectively sidelining a sequel to *Avowed*.
In the wake of these layoffs, Outer Worlds 2 director Brandon Adler took to LinkedIn to express his sentiments regarding the difficult week at Obsidian. He shared his sadness about bidding farewell to talented developers, emphasizing their skills both in a professional and personal capacity. “If you are looking to hire one of these former Obsidian devs, you are hiring some of the best people around,” Adler stated.
Adler also addressed criticisms from some in the gaming community who claim that Obsidian is no longer the powerhouse it once was. He expressed frustration with “cold take artists” who, without understanding the contributions of the studio’s key figures, assert that Obsidian isn’t what it used to be. He pointed out that many leaders at the studio are the same individuals who worked on previous successes, including *The Outer Worlds*, *Pillars of Eternity*, and *New Vegas*.
While acknowledging that changes have occurred over the years, Adler asserted that the core ethos and “DNA” of Obsidian remain intact. He noted, “Is Obsidian the same as it was 20 years ago? No, of course not. Nothing stays the same. But the DNA at Obsidian is the same as it always was.” This pride in their history and the excitement for their evolution suggests a commitment to carrying forward the legacy that defined the studio.
Despite recent criticisms regarding the reception of their latest RPGs, Adler believes that *Avowed* and *The Outer Worlds* still embody the essence of what makes Obsidian unique. The studio has faced the challenge of being judged against its past successes, with expectations that can overshadow new releases. Often, nostalgia can create an unrealistic comparison, making it difficult for newer titles to be appreciated on their own merits.
As Obsidian navigates these tumultuous waters, fans and supporters hope that the studio will continue to thrive and evolve while staying true to the values that have defined them over the years. With the looming development of a new *Fallout* installment, the community eagerly anticipates what the future holds for Obsidian Entertainment.