Obsidian game director reacts to people “spouting off” about the studio and how it’s not what it “used to be”
Brandon Adler, a 13-year veteran director at Obsidian Entertainment, publicly defended the studio following Microsoft's recent job cuts. Addressing what he called an "extremely difficult week," he challenged outsiders making unfounded claims about Obsidian's evolution, emphasizing that many staff members spreading commentary lack direct knowledge of game development or the studio's history. Adler highlighted that the same leadership figures responsible for acclaimed titles spanning two decades—from Knights of the Old Republic 2 to The Outer Worlds—continue directing projects today.
The statement came amid broader fallout from Microsoft's reorganisation of its gaming division, which saw Obsidian lose approximately one-quarter of its staff. The company realigned the studio's priorities toward Fallout franchise titles rather than its previous projects, resulting in the cancellation of multiple games including the announced Avowed sequel. Adler acknowledged the studio is not identical to its past self but argued its foundational identity and creative approach remain consistent, while cautioning observers against speculating without substantive insight into studio operations.
- Obsidian Entertainment director dismissed public criticism of the studio's direction, arguing core leadership and talent remain unchanged despite industry perception
- Microsoft's Xbox layoffs cut roughly 25% of Obsidian's workforce and shifted the studio toward Fallout projects, resulting in cancelled games including an Avowed sequel