Julian Lefay, legendary game developer and widely known as the “Father of The Elder Scrolls,” has passed away at the age of 59. The news was shared by his colleagues at OnceLost Games, where he had been working in recent years on the ambitious open-world RPG The Wayward Realms.

Lefay had been battling cancer for a long time. Just a few days ago, it was announced that he would be stepping away from the gaming industry to spend time with his family. Sadly, his passing was confirmed shortly afterward.

Julian’s impact on the gaming world is immeasurable. He played a key role in the creation of the first Elder Scrolls titles, including Arena, Daggerfall, and Battlespire, setting the foundation for open-world RPGs as we know them today. Earlier in his career, he worked on titles such as Wayne Gretzky Hockey and numerous Bethesda projects, establishing himself as a pioneer in game design.

In an official statement, OnceLost Games promised to honor Julian’s vision by continuing the development of The Wayward Realms:

“We are not just continuing his work — we are honoring it by ensuring that his vision becomes the reality he dreamed of. Every detail, every system, every player experience will reflect his dedication to creating ‘The Grand RPG’ that redefines the genre,” the team wrote.

Julian Lefay’s contributions shaped an entire generation of RPGs, inspiring developers and players alike. His legacy will live on in every realm, every quest, and every story that emerges from the worlds he helped create.