Todd Howard Welcomes Obsidian to Fallout TV’s New Vegas Adventure

Bethesda’s Todd Howard has shed light on the creative process behind the Fallout TV series’ highly anticipated return to New Vegas. As the show’s team prepares to revisit this legendary setting, Howard emphasizes the importance of both honoring the legacy of the original game and bringing something new to the table. He describes the approach as similar to launching a brand-new title, with a focus on respecting the unique experiences every player had in the Mojave.

Reimagining a Classic Setting

Howard explains,

“We sort of approach it like we do a new game. Like, hey, we're starting fresh. Okay, we're going back to Vegas: number one, we've got to honor the journey that every player had there. Maneuvering that is tricky. [Co-showrunners Graham Wagner and Geneva Robertson-Dworet] have some great ways to manoeuvre that fog of war, and [ask] what are the factions up to now.”

The creative team is determined to capture the spirit of the original while exploring new storylines and character arcs. Navigating the expectations of longtime fans, they’re also taking bold steps to keep the narrative fresh and unpredictable.

Fan-First Philosophy and Creative Risks

Throughout his career, Howard has prioritized the fan experience, and this philosophy remains at the heart of the show’s development. He notes that while authenticity is key, the team isn’t afraid to take chances as the story follows Lucy, The Ghoul, and a diverse cast of survivors making their way toward the Strip.

“It's going back to authenticity,” Howard says. “What would we want to see as a fan? Make it as authentic as possible and come at it with a lot of thought, a lot of love, but also take some swings.”

This balance between staying true to the source material and introducing new elements is central to the show’s vision.

Bringing Iconic Characters to Life

One of the most exciting aspects for Howard and the creative team has been the opportunity to reintroduce memorable figures from the games. The enigmatic House, who made a brief appearance in the first season after his pivotal role in Fallout: New Vegas, was a major topic of discussion.

“It was a question early on: Do we put House in the show? How much? And then you're like, 'He's amazing. He's one of the best characters. The first real character from the games brought into the show and he's awesome, right? So, [that's] just a great opportunity.”

The decision to include such a beloved character highlights the show’s commitment to both nostalgia and innovation.

Collaboration with Obsidian and Looking Ahead

In a nod to the original creators, Howard invited developers from Obsidian—the studio behind Fallout: New Vegas—to visit the set and share their insights. This collaboration ensures that the new season remains grounded in the world that fans fell in love with, even as it charts new territory. While the showrunners have been clear about not sticking to a single New Vegas storyline, the involvement of the original team adds an extra layer of authenticity to the project.

As anticipation builds for the next chapter, viewers are left to wonder how the show will continue to evolve and which familiar faces might return to the wasteland. The journey back to New Vegas promises to be as thrilling and unpredictable as ever.