Developer's Diaries

For anyone who is interested in learning more about how the people who create games think, The Elder Scrolls.com has a long series of Diaries from the creative staff detailing everything from marketing to programming and level design.  The latest one discusses the processes that the designers went through in trying to create a real world environment and how the latest computer programs helped them to do it.  Some of the earlier diaries are intriguing as they explain the steps behind crafting a unique dungeon-crawl experience, as well as how spells were designed and even how sounds were engineered for the game. 

Even better is that there are 25 Diaries on the site, dating back to before Oblivion had even been seen by the public and development was just beginning.  Some of the executives detail their thoughts about each of the previous Elder Scrolls games, and some focus on Morrowind and don’t even mention Oblivion.  I have always had a soft spot for Developer’s commentaries, I feel that they provide very unique and candid opinions on game development.  They also provide an easy way for creators to communicate with their fans and supporters without the stress and worries of going through the press.  I hope that you enjoy them, and a unique take on Oblivion is coming soon!