A good, solid game will be a VERY good thing for Obsidian.... even if it's a "hand me down".
"if" KotOR 2 is a well made game, that's ALL that will matter as it will show that Obsidian can make good games, will likely put a fair bit of coin in their accounts and will start giving them a good rep.
The fact that it's KotOR2 makes these even more likely.... assuming the game isn't a total bomb.
It's a very smart tactical move in my opinion.
Once they get established, THEN they can start making original games, and with the rep KotOR 2 will surely bring them... will likely get these games more exposure.
Which is a good thing... we want MORE rpg producing companies, not less.... and I think we can all agree that Trokia isn't off to a stellar start...