Acclaimed narrative designer Chris Avellone has been announced as part of Republic Games, a studio established by ex-Quantic Dream writer Adam Williams. Their collaboration centers on an ambitious adult-oriented fantasy RPG project, aligning with Avellone’s expertise in creating complex worlds for titles like Fallout: New Vegas, Planescape: Torment, Divinity: Original Sin II, Prey, and multiple Star Wars and Pathfinder entries.

Adam Williams revealed the partnership via social media, stating:

Chris has shaped legendary role-playing experiences through his innovative storytelling. Having him join our project is monumental. We’re crafting a gritty, choice-driven narrative that builds on the legacy of classic RPGs while pushing boundaries.

His approach to branching narratives and player agency perfectly matches our vision. Assembling such a talented team fuels my excitement for what we’ll achieve.

Avellone expressed enthusiasm in an official release:

Adam’s detailed worldbuilding and focus on consequential storytelling immediately resonated with me. Contributing to this project from its early stages is a unique chance to innovate within the genre.

The game promises deep reactivity, with player decisions reshaping both character arcs and the game world, culminating in varied conclusions. This design ethos mirrors Avellone’s previous work on titles like Knights of the Old Republic II and Wasteland 3.

In 2020, Avellone faced misconduct accusations that led to severed partnerships with studios including Techland and Paradox Interactive. After a prolonged legal process, he successfully contested the claims in court, resulting in retractions and a settlement from the accusers.

Republic Games’ announcement emphasizes Avellone’s reinstated professional standing, highlighting his return to high-profile game development following the resolution of these controversies.