The Great Exodus: Avalanche Liverpool Edition
In a plot twist that no one saw coming (unless one had a crystal ball, or perhaps just paid attention), the gates have closed on Avalanche Liverpool, leaving 31 developers looking for new adventures. This is not the start of a new sci-fi game but rather the unfortunate reality of studio closure.
The Dreaded Announcement
Earlier this year, in a move akin to the world’s most suspenseful game of “Will They, Won’t They,” Avalanche Liverpool initiated a collective consultation process. And lo and behold, as mandated by the fine folks at UK law, they have now confirmed what everyone feared: the studio is no more. Cue the dramatic music and heartfelt goodbyes.
On November 19, the studio took to its own website to share the news. The statement, rich with corporate charm, expressed gratitude for the “exceptional talent, passion, and commitment” from the soon-to-be-previous employees, noting that their contributions were as impactful as a triple shot of espresso on a Monday morning. It’s always nice to acknowledge hard work, even when it all ends with “so long, and thanks for all the fish.”
A Game That Never Was
But let’s talk about the real meat of this saga: Contraband. This co-op open-world game set in the glittering 1970s was introduced to the world with a flashy cinematic trailer during E3 2021, and then? It vanished faster than socks in a dryer. Fast forward four years, and not a peep has been heard—or seen—as to its development flavor. One might think the developers set up a 1970s-style mystery to keep everyone guessing.
In what can only be described as a cinematic tragedy for fans of the genre, it was revealed that development on Contraband was “on hold.” Apparently, Avalanche decided that evaluating the project’s future sounded more enticing than, you know, actually developing it. A supposed wink and nod that an update would come “as soon as we can” only adds to the sense of intrigue (or is that just confusion?).
The Microsoft Shuffle
This closure isn’t just a solo act; it’s part of Microsoft’s bigger game plan—or should it be called a “restructuring extravaganza”? Earlier this year, the powers that be made it clear that layoffs were in the cards, aiming to slice away the layers of management like a particularly unappetizing layer cake. Phil Spencer, head honcho of gaming, indicated the cuts were aimed to “end or decrease work in certain areas,” implying that they were trimming fat instead of throwing a big fat celebration.
As if that wasn’t enough to sink the ship in choppy waters, fans were also dealt the emotionally steely news that Rare’s long-awaited RPG Everwild and the fan-favorite Perfect Dark had gone the way of the dinosaur, thanks to cancellations that could surely have sparked a few angry tweets.
A Bittersweet Farewell
Ultimately, the closure of Avalanche Liverpool is more than just a closing chapter; it’s an entire book filled with twists, turns, and unexpected reveals. While the developers find themselves seeking greener pastures (and maybe a new studio with coffee that doesn’t taste like burnt toast), let’s hope for a swift recovery for those affected and a hopeful glance towards the future. After all, just like a good game, life goes on, often with a plot twist or two along the way.
