Owlcat Games, the studio that masterfully translated the intricate world of the Pathfinder tabletop game into two of the most celebrated CRPGs of the modern era, is embroiled in passionate internal debates about the series' future. Following the immense success of Pathfinder: Kingmaker and its epic successor, Wrath of the Righteous, the team is reportedly having "crazy arguments" over the monumental task of creating a potential third installment, signaling just how seriously they take their responsibility to the franchise and its dedicated fanbase.
The Weight of a Righteous Legacy
In the world of computer role-playing games, few studios have captured the spirit of classic tabletop adventures as faithfully and ambitiously as Owlcat Games. With 2018's Pathfinder: Kingmaker, they delivered a sprawling, complex RPG that revitalized the isometric genre, drawing direct comparisons to legends like Baldur's Gate. They followed it up in 2021 with Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous, a project that took everything that made its predecessor great and amplified it, introducing the spectacular Mythic Paths system and a narrative of truly epic proportions. These titles have solidified Owlcat's reputation as masters of the craft, creating a massive and loyal following eagerly awaiting news of what comes next.
Inside the Owlcat's Nest: 'Crazy Arguments' Erupt Over What's Next
The very passion that fuels Owlcat's detailed world-building and intricate mechanics is now the source of intense internal discussion. The revelation that the team is having "crazy arguments" about bringing the series back is not a sign of turmoil, but rather a testament to the high stakes and creative investment involved. The question is not just *if* they should make another Pathfinder game, but *how* they can possibly top the staggering scale of Wrath of the Righteous. These debates are likely multifaceted, touching upon every aspect of development. Which of Paizo's beloved Adventure Paths should they adapt? Or should they venture into uncharted territory with a completely original story set in the world of Golarion? How can they innovate on the core mechanics without alienating the fanbase that loves the existing system?
The Pressure to Innovate
Following up on a game like Wrath of the Righteous is no small feat. Its Mythic Paths system, which allowed players to ascend to near-godlike power, was a groundbreaking feature that offered immense replayability and narrative depth. Any new title would be expected to deliver a similarly innovative central concept. The studio is not resting on its laurels, having recently released the well-received Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader, a project that demonstrates their ability to adapt their CRPG formula to a completely different universe and ruleset. The lessons learned from developing Rogue Trader—from its strategic combat to its unique narrative structure—will undoubtedly inform and influence these internal conversations about Pathfinder's future.
Potential Paths Forward
While Owlcat remains tight-lipped on specifics, the Pathfinder universe offers a wealth of possibilities. Fans have long speculated about which Adventure Path could be next. A popular choice is Rise of the Runelords, the very first campaign published for the tabletop game and a classic fantasy epic. Others point towards the urban intrigue and political drama of Curse of the Crimson Throne or the swashbuckling adventure of Skulls & Shackles. Each path offers a distinct tone and set of mechanics that would present a fresh challenge for the development team. Whatever they decide, the news that Owlcat is passionately, if argumentatively, charting a course for a new Pathfinder adventure is a promising sign. For now, fans can only wait, knowing that the team's dedication to getting it right is as powerful as a Mythic hero's final stand.