This article delves into insights from a veteran game designer on the narrative decisions of one of the most renowned fantasy adventures, examining how the unfolding story might be settled as future games continue the legacy.
A lead designer from a previous acclaimed installment discussed the possibility of establishing a definitive conclusion for the conflict element within the storyline before the next major release. He observed that although the main narrative path was quite straightforward, culminating in a decisive confrontation to avert a legendary threat, numerous significant choices remain available that affect both the central region and the broader universe. Despite no longer being affiliated with the studio, his reflections offer perspective on how these monumental decisions could eventually be resolved.
During an extensive conversation with a media outlet, the designer was asked whether a conclusive narrative regarding the ongoing conflict would be determined before the next entry in the series arrived. He speculated that the outcome might be intentionally left ambiguous or portrayed as an unresolved contest, noting that some elements of the storyline are best preserved by ensuring that neither faction ultimately gains absolute control.
He emphasized that for certain narrative frameworks, it is preferable to restore the original state of affairs to avoid irreversible alterations in the storyline. Conversely, in epic tales, dramatic shifts are embraced to reflect a lively, ever-evolving world. For less transformative story arcs, such as those involving clandestine organizations, he prefers a resolution that minimizes limitations for future narratives centered on similar themes. In his view, the conflict could be resolved either by not addressing its aftermath at all or by acknowledging it as an incomplete struggle—perhaps even settling into a state of uneasy peace.
Although a marked discrepancy is often evident in the timeline between major series entries—historically spanning centuries in the lore—this particular conflict remains a pivotal event that resists a neatly packaged conclusion. While the designer’s current detachment from the development team may mean he is not privy to the most recent plans, his insights suggest that we might soon witness what many consider to be the true resolution for this storied chapter in the series.