Obsidian Entertainment director Brandon Adler responded to criticism regarding the studio’s recent changes after Microsoft’s Xbox layoffs, stating that some commentators lack insight into the company’s history.

Adler made his remarks in a LinkedIn post, noting that the week had been difficult for the team following the announcement that Microsoft eliminated 1,600 positions immediately and planned further cuts throughout the fiscal year.

He said that many “cold take artists” have emerged to question what Obsidian is or is not, often without understanding the contributions of those who worked on previous titles such as The Outer Worlds, Pillars of Eternity, New Vegas, and KotOR2.

Adler emphasized that leadership roles at the studio remain filled by individuals who have been part of its history, and he said the studio’s core DNA, which originated with games like KotOR, New Vegas, and Neverwinter Nights 2, has remained consistent.

He also mentioned that Obsidian recently canceled a sequel to its fantasy RPG Avowed and began development of a new Fallout game led by former New Vegas director Josh Sawyer.

The restructuring has left the studio navigating uncertainty, with additional layoffs expected and ongoing discussion about its future direction.