What started as a crowdfunded classic RPG title has grown into a beloved series that includes two Pillars of Eternity games, several expansions, and the recently released first-person Avowed. Now, some of the Obsidian Entertainment developers would like to continue the franchise in a tactical game format.
Josh Sawyer’s Vision for a Tactical Strategy Game
Josh Sawyer, director of Fallout: New Vegas, Pillars of Eternity, and Pentiment, touched on the topic of creating a tactical strategy game set in the fantasy world of Eora again during a recent stream:
“Pillars Tactics is something a lot of people at the studio would like to work on, and a lot of people like tactics games,” said Sawyer.
Challenges in Developing a Tactical Game
The studio’s design director had raised the issue a few months ago, as several Obsidian employees had suggested the idea. However, he acknowledged that “figuring out the scale of a title” is tricky. Key questions arise:
- How many developers should you devote to a relatively niche genre?
- How big should the game be?
- How much time should you spend making it as beautiful as Avowed?
“We need a scale of development where the game can actually make money,” Sawyer emphasized. Tactical games have a very passionate fan base, but it’s not huge. The floor is high—if you make a decent tactical game, these people will buy it. But even if they all buy it, it’s still not that big of an audience.
The Future of the Pillars of Eternity Universe
After Avowed, the chances of the studio returning to its now expansive universe are pretty high. Sawyer has also expressed interest in making Pillars of Eternity 3, though only if Xbox is willing to commit a Baldur’s Gate 3-level budget.
Expanding the Pillars Universe
In addition to the tactical game idea, there are other exciting possibilities for the Pillars of Eternity universe. Expansions, spin-offs, and even multimedia adaptations such as novels or animated series could further enrich the world of Eora. This would not only cater to the existing fan base but also attract new players and enthusiasts.
Community and Developer Engagement
Engaging with the community is crucial for the success of any game. Obsidian Entertainment has a history of involving their fans in the development process, and this could be a key factor in the future of the Pillars of Eternity franchise. Community feedback, beta testing, and even crowdfunding could play a significant role in shaping upcoming projects.
Conclusion
The Pillars of Eternity series has captivated players with its rich storytelling, intricate gameplay, and immersive world. As the franchise continues to evolve, the possibilities are endless. Whether it’s through a tactical strategy game, new expansions, or other creative ventures, the future of Eora looks bright and promising.
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