What's Happening?
Xbox and Avalanche Studios have paused the development of the 'Contraband' video game, a project that has been in the works for over five years. Initially announced in 2021, 'Contraband' was set to be a co-op smuggler's paradise set in the fictional 1970s world of Bayan, exclusive to Xbox Series S and X consoles. The decision to halt development follows recent layoffs within Microsoft's gaming division, although no jobs at Xbox are reportedly affected by this specific pause. The game was to be released on Xbox Game Pass, Steam, and Windows 10 PC. The development team is currently evaluating the project's future, with no immediate plans for continuation.
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Why It's Important?
The halt in development of 'Contraband' highlights the challenges faced by the gaming industry, particularly in the wake of economic pressures and corporate restructuring. This move reflects broader trends of project cancellations and workforce reductions within major tech companies, impacting game developers and potentially altering the landscape of upcoming game releases. For Xbox, this decision may affect its competitive edge in offering exclusive titles, which are crucial for attracting and retaining subscribers to its gaming platforms. The pause also raises questions about the future of other projects under development by Xbox and its partners.
What's Next?
The future of 'Contraband' remains uncertain as the development team assesses the project's viability. Xbox and Avalanche Studios have promised to update the community on any new developments. Meanwhile, Xbox continues to work on other projects with external teams, which may see shifts in focus or resources as a result of this pause. Stakeholders, including gamers and industry analysts, will be watching closely for any announcements regarding the resumption of development or potential cancellation.
