Years before Fallout 3 was released in 2008, Black Isle Studios was developing an original version of the game codenamed Van Buren. Unfortunately, the project was canceled in 2003, leading to the closure of the studio. Despite never being released, Van Buren still holds a significant place in the hearts of Fallout fans. Now, series creator Tim Cain sheds light on the circumstances that led to its cancellation. In a recent YouTube video, he reveals how he played a prototype of the game and estimated that it would take 18 months to complete. However, a vice president at Interplay wanted it done in less than six months, leading to the ultimate cancellation of Van Buren and the closure of Black Isle. While Fallout 3 eventually made its way to gamers through Bethesda, the original vision of Van Buren remains a lost treasure in the history of the franchise.