Skyrims Producer Reveals He Hand-Tweaked Game Balance Just Weeks Before Launch

Former producer of Bethesda, Jeff Gardiner, reminisced during a conversation with PC Gamer and shared some insights about his time working on The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. He revealed that due to a conflict with the designers, he had to manually adjust the game’s balance just weeks before its release.

The expert explained that his team relied solely on simulation results, which, according to Gardiner, were insufficient.

During testing, AI-controlled characters primarily engaged in straightforward attacks, while human players might adopt different strategies. If this were the case, Skyrim would only feel balanced for those players who disregard many of the game’s mechanics. As Gardiner recalled, a similar situation had occurred in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion.

Throughout his career, Gardiner honed his skills in design, having previously held that role, which allowed him to tinker with the game’s balance himself. He built a trusting relationship with the designers, leading him to believe he could take such liberties, unlike some of his colleagues who might not approach their work with the same level of diligence.

Currently, Bethesda is working on The Elder Scrolls VI, which was announced back in 2018. Rumors suggest that a full reveal of the sixth installment, along with a remake of Oblivion, will take place in July.