The Elder Scrolls ’Father’ Julian LeFay Steps Away from the Games Industry Over Serious Health Battle

Julian LeFay, also known as The Elder Scrolls’ “father,” is stepping away from the game industry due to his worsening battle with cancer. LeFay was a crucial part of the Bethesda team, helping the studio create The Elder Scrolls games, and had recently been working at his own studio, OnceLost Games, where he was developing the open-world RPG The Wayward Realms.

The Elder Scrolls franchise is likely one of the most iconic open-world RPG series, created in 1994 by Bethesda. The first entry, The Elder Scrolls: Arena, launched in 1994 and the franchise has since become one of the cornerstones of the genre due to its well-crafted worlds and player-driven narratives. The series has also expanded into online multiplayer with The Elder Scrolls Online and has seen various spin-offs and remasters, with the latest one, The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remaster, being a huge success. Julian LeFay has been a pivotal figure in the creation of the franchise, and now his colleagues have shared heartbreaking news with fans.

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In a heartfelt YouTube video, OnceLost Games' creative producer Victor Villarreal, from the studio developing The Wayward Realms, opened up to fans, sharing Julian LeFay’s critical health situation. LeFay has been battling cancer for the past several years, and “it seems he doesn't have very much time left.” This unfortunate reality has led the legendary Elder Scrolls developer to step away from the industry to spend time with his loved ones.

The Elder Scrolls' 'Father' Steps Away from the Industry Amid Worsening Cancer Battle

“Julian has been courageously battling cancer,” writes OnceLost Games' CEO, Peterson, in a long, emotive statement in the video’s description, telling fans that the studio is preparing for a final goodbye to LeFay. Peterson highlighted Julian’s dedication to the development of The Wayward Realms even in the face of his worsening illness, working “tirelessly to ensure that his vision for 'The Grand RPG' will live on.” He added that LeFay documented his ideas and vision for the game so the team can follow them in order to complete the project he worked so hard on.

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It is personal. And if it’s not personal, then you’re just doing work for hire and you’ll never have the motivation to accomplish a significant goal.

Peterson continues his statement, expressing his deeply personal relationship with LeFay: “I regret every second I didn’t spend with one of the most charming, smart, funny, and interesting people I’ve ever met.” He also shared Julian’s words from their last team meeting: “It is personal. And if it’s not personal, then you’re just doing work for hire and you’ll never have the motivation to accomplish a significant goal.” With that in mind, Peterson reassures fans that he will carry LeFay’s vision forward in the upcoming Wayward Realms and invites the community to share their words of support during this difficult time.