Jeff Gardiner, a former Bethesda developer who worked on both Skyrim and all three of the studio’s Fallout games, recently shared his thoughts on the importance of storytelling in RPGs. Gardiner, who served as project lead on Fallout 76 and also contributed to Skyrim, Fallout 3, and Fallout 4, emphasized that RPGs „live and die“ on the strength of their story.
During an interview with the Boss Rush Network podcast, Gardiner reflected on his experience working on different franchises, including Activision’s 2005 Fantastic Four game. He noted that creating a story from scratch can be daunting, as it requires a significant amount of work to develop backstories, connective tissues, and compelling characters. Gardiner stressed that a well-crafted narrative is essential for keeping players engaged in an RPG.
Gardiner highlighted the impact of storytelling by sharing his personal experience as a player. He admitted that he would overlook flawed game mechanics for hours if he found the story captivating. According to Gardiner, memorable characters and a compelling narrative are what truly resonate with players and leave a lasting impression.
The former Bethesda developer also discussed the upcoming Fallout TV show, noting that its success hinges on understanding the games‘ setting and tone. Gardiner praised the showrunners for creating a series that stays true to the essence of the Fallout universe, providing enough connective tissue to craft an engaging narrative.
While Gardiner’s perspective on the importance of storytelling in RPGs is valid, not everyone may share the same sentiment. Some players, particularly those drawn to Bethesda’s RPGs like Skyrim, may prioritize gameplay mechanics over narrative. For example, the allure of playing as a stealth archer in Skyrim may overshadow the intricacies of the story for some players.
In addition to storytelling, Gardiner also touched on game design and player experience. He mentioned that he often clashed with his colleagues at Bethesda over the issue of giving players everything they want. Gardiner emphasized the importance of balancing player desires with game limitations to create a challenging and rewarding experience.
Overall, Gardiner’s insights shed light on the intricate process of developing RPGs and the critical role that storytelling plays in shaping player engagement. Whether players are drawn to immersive narratives or captivating gameplay mechanics, the success of an RPG ultimately hinges on striking the right balance between storytelling and game design.