Obsidian Entertainment, a veteran in the gaming industry with over two decades of development expertise, is setting an ambitious goal—to thrive as a gaming studio for a full century. This declaration, articulated by VP of operations Marcus Morgan and VP of development Justin Britch at the recent DICE Summit, is not just a lofty aspiration; it is grounded in a pragmatic and balanced approach to game development. Tackling the challenging landscape of the gaming industry, their strategy pivots on the principles of consistency and sustainability.
Realism Over Ambition
Morgan and Britch emphasize the importance of maintaining realistic expectations regarding game performance and sales. Rather than chasing blockbuster success or aiming for games that redefine industry standards with breathtaking graphics and expansive content, Obsidian is positioning itself to achieve what Britch terms “mild success.” This concept involves setting manageable goals that ensure the studio remains profitable, albeit not extravagantly so. By establishing a clear understanding of the resources needed before greenlighting a project, Obsidian can mitigate the risk often associated with game development.
A key element of Obsidian’s operational strategy is to maintain a lean workforce. By focusing on a core group of dedicated employees and ensuring that turnover rates remain low, the studio can foster a creative and stable environment. This approach is particularly vital in an industry notorious for its volatility, where even veteran studios sometimes experience shake-ups that can disrupt ongoing projects. Obsidian’s model allows it to adjust its ambitions in accordance with its resources, which is a wise maneuver given the sporadic nature of game releases from other studios that sometimes fail to capture player interest despite their significant investments.
Obsidian’s relationship with Microsoft, its parent company, adds another layer to this strategic plan. The financial backing from one of the world’s leading tech firms provides a cushion, allowing Obsidian the freedom to explore innovative ideas without the undue pressure of immediate, heavy returns. The studio has successfully created a string of titles, including The Outer Worlds and Pentiment, which showcases its capability to produce engaging content that resonates with gamers while adhering to its principles of fiscal responsibility.
Looking Ahead: The Release of Avowed
As Obsidian prepares to launch its latest title, Avowed, on February 18, the studio’s focus on sustainable growth appears to be solidifying its reputation. With its pending release already generating buzz, it continues to walk the fine line between ambition and real-world constraints. The critical reception of upcoming games, following the lackluster launches of titles from competitors, will serve as further validation of Obsidian’s unique approach. In a world where gaming success can often fluctuate unpredictably, maintaining a grounded philosophy in development could ensure that Obsidian Entertainment remains a staple in the industry for many years to come.