Unpacking a Decade-Long Obsession with a Single RPG Dialogue: The Zahua Enigma in Pillars of Eternity

A specific conversational sequence in Obsidian Entertainment's 'Pillars of Eternity: The White March – Part One' has held a decade-long fascination for a dedicated player. This subtle yet profound moment, featuring the companion Zahua's query, "Are you real?" and the protagonist's myriad of potential replies, masterfully intertwines witty self-referential humor about role-playing game conventions with deep character embodiment. This piece dissects the creative genesis of this memorable interaction by consulting Eric Fenstermaker, the former Obsidian writer who conceived Zahua and his unique narrative arc, illuminating the blend of deliberate craft and spontaneous inspiration that forged such a beloved gaming experience. Moreover, it explores how even minor dialogue choices can significantly enhance player agency and immersion within the expansive world of RPGs, highlighting the enduring impact of nuanced writing.

This particular dialogue choice in the first expansion of Obsidian's 'Pillars of Eternity,' 'The White March: Part One,' has captivated players for a full decade. Following a confrontation with ogres in Stalwart, players encounter Zahua, a martial artist, ascetic, and psychonaut who emerges from a fish barrel. His initial, disoriented question, "Are you real?" opens up a rich array of player responses, from a straightforward "Yes" to a more evasive "There is no way to be certain." This range allows players to deeply roleplay their character, reflecting everything from existential doubt to humorous self-awareness. The enduring appeal of this moment lies in its clever parody of traditional RPG dialogue while simultaneously offering meaningful character expression, fostering a profound connection between player and narrative. The unexpected depth of this interaction solidifies its place as a standout moment in the history of role-playing games.

The Genesis of an Existential Query

The profound and humorous dialogue options presented by Zahua were born from a desire to introduce the character in an unconventional and revealing manner. Eric Fenstermaker, the former Obsidian writer, intentionally placed Zahua in a fish barrel within the fishing village of Stalwart. This peculiar setting served to immediately showcase Zahua's ascetic practices and his perpetually disoriented state due to sacred hallucinogens. His opening line, "Are you real?" was designed to reflect his altered perception of reality while also providing a unique "icebreaker" that steered the conversation towards his eccentric personality and philosophical leanings.

Fenstermaker's creative process was driven by a commitment to avoiding linearity in player choice, ensuring that if an NPC could question reality, the player should also have the freedom to engage with that theme. This led to the development of multiple, varied responses, each allowing for distinct role-playing interpretations—from straightforward affirmation to philosophical uncertainty or even an ironic lie. While time constraints prevented deeper narrative reactivity to this specific exchange, Fenstermaker emphasized the core RPG philosophy of enabling player self-expression. He also revealed a similar, equally humorous "[Nihilist] I KNEW IT!" option in the base game, underscoring Obsidian's dedication to rewarding players for embracing unique character builds. This thoughtful approach ensures that while not every choice leads to branching storylines, it always enriches the player's personal journey and connection to the world.

Player Agency and Narrative Depth in RPGs

The dialogue with Zahua exemplifies Obsidian's commitment to empowering players with genuine agency, allowing them to shape their character's identity and reactions within the game world. Rather than forcing a singular path, the varied responses to Zahua's question provide a playground for self-expression, catering to diverse player motivations, whether they seek deep role-playing, comedic relief, or philosophical exploration. This approach ensures that the game resonates with a broad audience, acknowledging that players engage with RPGs for different reasons, from intricate combat systems to rich narrative experiences.

Fenstermaker articulated that the essence of compelling RPG dialogue lies not just in allowing players to express themselves, but also in prompting them to discover unexplored facets of their characters. The seemingly simple exchange with Zahua taps into a core theme of "spiritual uncertainty" present in both 'Pillars of Eternity' and 'Avowed,' adding unexpected thematic weight to a lighthearted moment. While acknowledging the challenges of implementing extensive reactivity due to development deadlines, Fenstermaker believes in the intrinsic value of these expressive opportunities. He highlighted that such moments, even without profound in-game consequences, enrich the player's immersion and personal narrative, making the experience more engaging and memorable. Ultimately, these small, well-crafted interactions contribute significantly to the depth and replayability of the game, fostering a unique connection between player choice and narrative impact.