When it comes to storytelling in video games, few names carry the weight and respect of John Gonzalez. Known for his exceptional narrative work on beloved titles like Fallout: New Vegas and Horizon: Zero Dawn, Gonzalez has carved a reputation as a master storyteller in the world of RPG games. And now, after years away, he’s heading back to where it all began—Obsidian Entertainment. Excited yet? You’re not alone.
Let’s unpack what this means for fans of Gonzalez’s work and for the future of Obsidian, a studio already known for its pedigree in crafting immersive, choice-driven RPG experiences.
Why John Gonzalez’s Return Matters
So, why all the buzz about Gonzalez returning to Obsidian? Let’s just say his resume speaks for itself. Gonzalez was the lead writer for Fallout: New Vegas, which many fans argue is the best installment in the entire Fallout franchise. Remember the morally gray choices, the deep faction system, and the unforgettable world-building of the Mojave Wasteland? That’s Gonzalez’s handiwork.
After leaving Obsidian, he went on to serve as the narrative director for Guerrilla Games’ critically acclaimed Horizon: Zero Dawn. While Guerrilla was better known for its action-packed Killzone series, Gonzalez helped transform the studio into a storytelling powerhouse. The post-apocalyptic world of Aloy, with its intricate lore and emotional depth, became an instant classic, cementing Gonzalez’s reputation as a narrative genius.
Now, Gonzalez is back at Obsidian, the studio where his RPG roots were truly nourished. It’s like a rock star returning to their hometown stage—it feels right, doesn’t it?
Setting the Record Straight: Not a Fallout: New Vegas Sequel
Before you start dreaming of a Fallout: New Vegas 2, let’s pump the brakes. Gonzalez’s return to Obsidian isn’t tied to a sequel of the 2010 masterpiece. Bethesda still owns the Fallout IP, and while fans continue to clamor for a follow-up, nothing official has been announced.
That said, Gonzalez’s storytelling chops could be applied to any number of projects. Obsidian has a lot on its plate these days, from Avowed, their upcoming fantasy RPG, to The Outer Worlds 2, the sequel to their sci-fi hit. Could Gonzalez be jumping into one of these projects? Or maybe he’s working on something entirely new? The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this so exciting.
The Gonzalez Effect on RPG Storytelling
Let’s face it: RPG games live or die by their stories. Sure, combat mechanics and shiny graphics matter, but it’s the narrative that keeps players hooked for hours on end. Gonzalez understands this better than most.
In Fallout: New Vegas, Gonzalez gave us a world where every decision felt significant. Whether you sided with Caesar’s Legion, supported the NCR, or went rogue with Mr. House, your choices shaped the fate of the Mojave Wasteland. And the best part? There was no "right" answer. It was all about role-playing and living with the consequences of your actions.
Fast-forward to Horizon: Zero Dawn, and you see the same attention to detail. The game’s lore, from the mysterious fall of humanity to the rise of robotic creatures, was meticulously crafted. Gonzalez didn’t just write a story—he built a world that felt alive, layered, and deeply personal.
In an era where some RPGs feel like glorified checklists, Gonzalez’s approach is a breath of fresh air. He treats the narrative like the backbone of the game, not just an afterthought. And that’s why his return to Obsidian is such a big deal.
What Can We Expect from Gonzalez’s New Role?
Obsidian hasn’t revealed much about what Gonzalez will be working on, but let’s speculate for a moment. Could he bring his storytelling magic to Avowed? The game is set in Eora, the same world as Pillars of Eternity, and promises a deeply immersive fantasy experience. Gonzalez’s knack for world-building would be a perfect fit here, don’t you think?
Or maybe he’s diving into The Outer Worlds 2, a game that already has a reputation for witty dialogue and sharp social commentary. Gonzalez could elevate the sequel’s narrative to new heights, adding more emotional depth to its quirky, satirical universe.
Then there’s the wildcard: a brand-new IP. Obsidian has always been an ambitious studio, unafraid to take risks. With Gonzalez on board, they could be crafting the next great RPG, something that blends the moral complexity of New Vegas with the sweeping lore of Horizon. Now that’s a game I’d pre-order in a heartbeat.
Obsidian’s Legacy and the Road Ahead
Obsidian has always been a studio that punches above its weight. Whether it’s the cult classic Alpha Protocol, the epic Pillars of Eternity series, or the satirical brilliance of The Outer Worlds, they’ve consistently delivered games that resonate with players. And let’s not forget their roots—the studio was founded by veterans of Black Isle Studios, the team behind Fallout 2 and Planescape: Torment. Storytelling is in Obsidian’s DNA.
With Gonzalez back in the fold, the studio’s future looks even brighter. He’s not just a talented writer; he’s someone who understands the soul of an RPG. He knows how to create characters that stick with you, choices that make you sweat, and worlds that feel like they exist long after you’ve turned off the game.
The Competition: RPGs in the Modern Era
Of course, the RPG landscape has changed a lot since Gonzalez first worked at Obsidian. Today, the genre is more crowded than ever, with games like Dragon’s Dogma, Elden Ring, and Cyberpunk 2077 vying for players’ attention. Even indie titles like Undertale have raised the bar for storytelling in games.
But that’s what makes Gonzalez’s return so exciting. He’s proven time and again that he can stand out in a crowded field. Whether it’s through morally ambiguous choices, richly detailed lore, or emotionally resonant characters, Gonzalez has a way of connecting with players on a deeper level.
And let’s not forget Obsidian’s knack for innovation. They’ve dabbled in everything from survival games (Grounded) to MMO RPG elements in their more recent projects. With Gonzalez onboard, they could push the boundaries of what an RPG can be, blending genres and experimenting with new storytelling techniques.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
As you’d expect, fans are over the moon about Gonzalez’s return. Social media is buzzing with speculation, wishlists, and a fair share of "please make New Vegas 2" comments. It’s a testament to the impact Gonzalez has had on the gaming community. His stories aren’t just games—they’re experiences that stick with you long after the credits roll.
Of course, with great excitement comes great expectations. Fans will be watching closely to see what Gonzalez brings to the table this time around. But if his track record is anything to go by, we’re in for something special.
What Does This Mean for Obsidian?
In many ways, Gonzalez’s return feels like a homecoming. It’s a chance for Obsidian to reconnect with the elements that made them a fan-favorite studio in the first place: deep, meaningful storytelling and player-driven choices.
But it’s also an opportunity to look forward. With Microsoft now owning Obsidian, the studio has more resources than ever before. They’re no longer the scrappy underdog—they’re a major player in the RPG space. And with Gonzalez onboard, they have the talent to match their ambitions.
Final Thoughts
John Gonzalez’s return to Obsidian is a big deal, not just for fans of Fallout: New Vegas and Horizon: Zero Dawn, but for anyone who loves RPG games. Whether he’s working on Avowed, The Outer Worlds 2, or something entirely new, one thing is clear: Gonzalez’s storytelling magic is back where it belongs.
So, what do you think? Are you excited to see what Gonzalez and Obsidian cook up next? One thing’s for sure—whatever it is, it’s bound to be unforgettable.