From Semi-Retirement to Full Engagement: The Evolution of a Game Development Veteran
A Return to the Obsidian Family
After half a decade dedicated to remote advisory work for various companies, including Obsidian, Tim Cain has officially ended his period of semi-retirement. He has made the decision to return to California, where he is now fully immersed in his role at Obsidian Entertainment, the studio behind titles such as 'The Outer Worlds'.
The Nuances of Remote Consulting
From June 2020 to December 2025, Cain operated as a freelance, remote consultant, a chapter he refers to as 'semi-retirement'. During this time, despite engaging with diverse game projects and teams, he constantly felt the pressure of securing his next contract. This perpetual search for work ultimately shaped his perspective on the sustainability and fulfillment of remote consulting.
Re-evaluating the Remote Work Paradigm
Cain articulates his belief that remote work is not universally beneficial and acknowledges its potential drawbacks. He suggests that those who champion remote work without considering its limitations might lack a comprehensive understanding of the challenges or are driven by personal preferences rather than objective professional analysis.
The Value of In-Person Collaboration
A key motivator for Cain's return to a physical office is the opportunity for spontaneous and meaningful interactions. He highlights numerous engaging discussions with artists, level designers, narrative designers, system mechanics experts, and audio specialists—conversations he claims would not have occurred through video calls. These informal exchanges foster a richer collaborative environment.
Overcoming Communication Barriers
Cain notes a distinct difference in communication dynamics between his consulting days and his current full-time position. As a contractor, team members were often hesitant to seek his advice due to concerns about billable hours. Now, with direct access via internal messaging or casual office visits, these barriers have dissolved, allowing for more fluid problem-solving and knowledge sharing.
The Simple Pleasures of Office Life
Beyond professional advantages, Cain also appreciates the smaller, day-to-day aspects of office life, such as "bagel day." He humorously suggests that even while waiting for a bagel, he can offer valuable insights to colleagues, underscoring the pervasive nature of collaborative learning in a shared workspace.
A Fulfilling New Chapter
Reflecting on his career stage, Cain expresses profound satisfaction with his current role. He views his full-time return not only as a personal fulfillment but also as an opportunity to mentor and contribute significantly to the careers of other developers within Obsidian. This new phase represents a successful "unretirement" for the industry veteran.