Van Buren, the codename for the original Fallout 3, was in development at Black Isle Studios, the developer of Fallout 2 and the acclaimed Planescape: Torment3. The project was canceled in 2003 due to significant financial issues at the company.
Cain's response, which estimated an 18-month development timeline for Van Buren, influenced the VP's decision as it exceeded the six-month limit the company could afford. The VP had already planned to cancel the project if the estimated time was over six months, so Cain's response ultimately confirmed his decision.
Van Buren, the original Fallout 3, was canceled in 2003 due to Interplay's financial difficulties and the vice president's decision to cancel the project unless it could be completed within a six-month timeframe. Series creator Tim Cain played a prototype of the game and estimated it would take 18 months to produce a good game, leading to the project's cancellation.