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NeoGAFs Kent Brockman
River, The Dog Behind Fallout 4's Dogmeat, Has Passed Away
Developer Joel Burgess confirmed the passing on his Twitter account
www.dualshockers.com
Joel Burgess, a developer on various Fallout titles, announced the heartbreaking news on Twitter. However, instead of using the moment to eulogize her, he instead opted for a deeper look into how River had such a great impact on the world of Fallout 4.
HOW DID RIVER INSPIRE DOGMEAT IN FALLOUT 4?
River was the real-life German Sheppard that inspired the in-game companion, Dogmeat. As noted by Burgess, Dogmeat was a companion first and an ally in combat second.In Burgess’ Twitter thread, he details how the developers searched through various “professional” dogs until River started visiting the Bethesda studio. The team then began forming a special bond with the adorable German Sheppard.
River quickly became part of the Fallout team and was even awarded ‘Best Dog’ for her model work as Dogmeat. Many fans will of course notice that River and Dogmeat are identical, even in terms of fur markings and facial expressions.
She wasn’t just the model though, River was even in the studio doing a lot of the sounds for Dogmeat.
Small details of River were also incorporated into the game. Burgess notes how he would take long walks with River, and although she’d trot ahead, she would always turn around and check back in on him. Something that was then added into the character of Dogmeat.
Was my companion in Fallout 4