In a new interview, Bethesda veteran and Skyrim's lead designer Bruce Nesmith discussed his time at the studio, including his perspective on studio head Todd Howard's management style.
Nesmith described Howard as "one of the best bosses I've ever had," who was keenly aware of being a potential bottleneck and worked hard to avoid it. However, Nesmith noted Howard still engages in what he calls "seagulling," where he swoops in and makes changes.
Nesmith emphasized this wasn't about mismanagement, but part of the studio's culture. He highlighted the creative freedom he was given on large-scale projects like Skyrim, such as when revamping the magic system, where Howard approved the general idea but gave him significant leeway.
The interview also touched on Bethesda's engine choice and Nesmith's post-Bethesda work promoting his new book trilogy.