Josh Sawyer’s work has always aimed to ground the fantastical elements of role-playing games (RPGs) into a believable reality. With titles like Fallout: New Vegas, Pillars of Eternity, and Pentiment, Sawyer has developed a reputation for crafting compelling narratives rooted in genuine historical contexts.

Sawyer believes that if a fantasy setting becomes excessively magical, it becomes challenging to relate back to reality. He emphasizes a materialistic approach to worldbuilding, which he has maintained throughout his career. In discussing his philosophy, he states, “Once things get too magical, in a sense, it’s impossible to bring it back down to Earth.”

For instance, in Pillars of Eternity, the interactive historical narratives reflect different societal dynamics, leading to conflicts that feel authentic due to their historical underpinnings.

This philosophy is similarly evident in Deadfire, where the dynamics between colonial powers and indigenous cultures are intricately woven into the gameplay. As Sawyer explains, implementing realistic struggles based on historical precedents adds depth and nuance to narratives that might otherwise fall flat in traditional fantasy contexts.

Overall, Sawyer’s commitment to authentic storytelling fosters a rich and engaging gaming experience, showing that the best RPGs can relate fantastical elements back to the human condition and historical struggles.