Two key figures behind Dispatch have expressed their belief that Aaron Paul, known for his role in Breaking Bad, might not have signed on for the game if he had understood the full extent of the workload involved.

In Dispatch, Paul portrays the main character, Robert, a role that necessitates his presence throughout the game, meaning his dedication was significant.

Narrative director Pierre Shorette described the process as “gruelling,” revealing concerns that Paul might be hesitant to collaborate again due to the extensive time commitment. “It felt like torture, with us calling him after eight weeks of silence just to ask for four more hours of work,” Shorette explained. “He might have thought he was finished, but we needed him back regularly over a two-year span because he essentially anchors the game.”

Game director Nick Herman echoed this, suggesting, “Had he realized what he was getting into, he might have turned it down.”

Shorette agreed, stating, “He definitely would have said no.”

Initially, the studio AdHoc considered casting Rahul Kohli as Robert. However, thanks to a solid relationship with a casting director, they were able to approach Paul, who resonated with the script. Shorette noted that Paul’s experience with the dark animated series Bojack Horseman, which shares thematic ties with Dispatch, also influenced his interest. “We were fortunate to have him on board; I can’t imagine the game without him now,” he emphasized.

Recently, Shorette spoke with Paul around the time of Dispatch’s release in late October or early November. During their chat, Paul opened up about feeling a bit empty despite his fame and success. Shorette described the interaction as a brotherly gesture.

Paul mentioned that while in France, he had been approached by fans who had played Dispatch and enjoyed his performance. Shorette noted that Paul has recently moved to France and had recognized being approached on the streets of Paris, not typically for his prominent role in Breaking Bad, but rather for his work in the game. “It’s typically someone shouting ‘bitch’ at him from across the street, referencing Breaking Bad,” Shorette observed. “But fans were reaching out about Dispatch even as it released episodically, leaving him surprised that it had gained traction internationally.”

Herman commented, “Considering how long he’s been in the spotlight, most people only approach him about Breaking Bad. For someone to say, ‘I love your performance in this ongoing video game’ is a rare experience for him.”

It’s important to note that while Paul’s voice work is prominent in the game, his likeness and performance capture were not utilized. Herman remarked, “I think it finally hit him that this project is significant and has garnered attention.”

The success of Dispatch and the recognition Paul received in Paris may influence his willingness to participate in future projects with AdHoc, possibly hinting at a potential Season 2 of Dispatch. Herman humorously added, “Honestly, it probably needed to achieve this level of success for him to be interested in returning.”

Dispatch has marked a pivotal achievement for AdHoc, which faced challenges for years in getting the game signed and launched. A partnership with the popular role-playing entity Critical Role ultimately facilitated their success, leading to impressive sales of 2 million units. Now, AdHoc must determine the future direction for Dispatch while also working on a new game inspired by Critical Role’s D&D adventures.