Creative Assembly returns to its roots with a fresh focus on signature genres
Nov 29, 2023 3:29 PMCreative Assembly, the developer known for titles like Alien Isolation and the Total War series, is refocusing on its core strengths in the real-time strategy genre following the cancellation of its title Hyenas. Publisher Sega has announced this strategic shift during a financial results briefing. CEO Haruki Satomi mentioned that Creative Assembly had ventured into unfamiliar territory with the shooter game Hyenas, and it became clear that this move did not play to the studio's established expertise, leading to the game's cancellation.
Sega had previously encouraged studios to experiment with different genres during the pandemic, as the gaming industry saw success in that period. However, not all experiments proved fruitful, prompting a return to focus on the strengths of each studio. While Hyenas was nearing completion, Sega decided to cancel the project, believing that it wouldn't satisfy users despite its quality. The details of Creative Assembly's current projects in the RTS genre have not been revealed yet. Sega's decision reflects a broader strategy to concentrate on proven areas of success.
This move indicates a trend in the gaming industry where studios may experiment with new genres, but will often revert to their roots when those experiments do not meet expectations. Fans of Creative Assembly's RTS titles will be pleased to hear of the studio's renewed commitment to the genre.
Jordan Keats
Jordan Keats is a former professional gamer turned journalist, whose competitive background gives them a unique perspective on esports and multiplayer games. Jordan's expertise in strategy and game mechanics is unmatched, offering readers a deeper understing.
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Miss Peachy commented on: 2023-11-29 16:08:07
Creative Assembly's pivot back to RTS feels like a homecoming that'll likely cheer up the Total War fans out there. Sometimes it's refreshing to see a studio recognize its strengths and double down, reminding us that not every genre leap lands even in a sea of success stories.
N3rdo commented on: 2023-11-29 15:58:05
Bummer to see Creative Assembly's Hyenas get the axe, but it's probably for the best—playing to your strengths usually leads to the wins players and developers both dig. Now let's ready up for some epic RTS action; sometimes the classic strategies are the ones that really level up the game.
Rolling R!ck commented on: 2023-11-29 15:48:06
Creative Assembly's pivot back to RTS games is a classic case of stick to what you know, but it also highlights the cutthroat nature of genre experimentation in the biz. Seems like Sega's playing it smart by doubling down on the studio's proven track record, even if it means shelving near-complete projects like Hyenas.
