Recent reports indicate that People Can Fly, the studio recognized for the popular title Outriders, has canceled its anticipated sequel, Outriders 2. The cancellation follows the studio's earlier decision to halt two other projects, Project Gemini and Project Bifrost, amid significant structural changes within the company. The CEO, Sebastian Wojciechowski, disclosed that further job losses were forthcoming as the studio continues to realign its workforce post layoffs last year. Notably, Project Gemini was confirmed to be linked with Square Enix and was in the process of motion capture when it was abruptly canceled. This decision comes on the heels of the cancellation of Project Dagger, previously in collaboration with Take-Two Interactive.

What does the cancellation of Outriders 2 mean for the franchise?

The cancellation of Outriders 2 suggests a potential shift in direction for People Can Fly, possibly affecting future projects and franchise momentum. Fans of the original game may need to wait longer for new content, as the studio focuses on restructuring and ongoing partnerships with other developers like PUBG's Krafton and Sony.

Outriders, released in March 2021, is an action role-playing game mixing dynamic shooting mechanics with a looter-shooter format. While the game was generally well-received, achieving a 7/10 rating from critics, the story and some gameplay elements were seen as areas needing improvement. Following the initial success, the excitement for a sequel was building, making the cancellation particularly disappointing for the community. As the studio pivots away from Outriders, the future remains uncertain, leaving both fans and developers pondering what's next for the franchise.