Larian publishing chief suggests VATS-style combat could solve Morrowind's RNG issue

Larian publishing chief Michael Douse waded into a debate about Morrowind’s combat, arguing that the game’s use of RNG for hits doesn’t mesh with first‑person play and suggesting a VATS‑style system could be a solution. The discussion began after veteran designer Bruce Nesmith said, “the reality of playing Morrowind would not stand the test of time,” arguing modern players might cringe revisiting the 20‑year‑old game.

Nesmith’s comments prompted responses from fans and industry figures. As the article explains, Morrowind’s combat relied on stats and RNG to determine hits and damage—mechanics not well reflected in on‑screen action—leading some to call it “kind of janky.” Douse wrote, “you cannot have an RNG system with first person combat,” and added, “Maybe Morrowind with VATS would be the solution.” The piece notes there’s plenty of disagreement, particularly on the Morrowind subreddit, and the author says he’s personally inclined to think the original combat is fine while acknowledging it comes from a different era of design.

The article also cites VATS in Fallout 3 as an example of integrating virtual dice rolls into first‑person mechanics. Nesmith left Bethesda in 2021, so he’s not directing the series’ future, and it remains unclear whether Larian or anyone else will take up a Morrowind revamp.

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