Xbox has officially halted development on its game Contraband, initially announced at E3 2021, after four years of minimal progress and communication. Bloomberg reported the cancellation, citing that the project's future is under evaluation. Avalanche Studios confirmed this news, expressing gratitude for community interest and stating that they will communicate any updates in the future. Originally set in a 1970s-themed smuggler's paradise named Bayan, little information has emerged since the teaser trailer was released. This cancellation follows a wave of project terminations at Xbox amid significant layoffs, raising concerns about the company's gaming strategy.
What is the reason for the cancellation of Contraband?The cancellation of Contraband is attributed to Xbox's need to evaluate the project after years of silence regarding its development, alongside broader organizational changes and layoffs within the company.
Contraband was developed by Avalanche Studios, known for creating the Just Cause series. Announced during E3 2021, it aimed to blend open-world gameplay with a unique 1970s aesthetic focused on smuggling. The game's lengthy development period and lack of updates have contributed to its ultimate cancellation, reflecting a challenging environment for game development within Xbox and its affiliates.
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.
Read more articles from Jordan Keats
Comments
Bummer about Contraband—Avalanche’s 70s smuggler vibe had serious potential, but Xbox’s recent shuffle makes it feel like even cool concepts aren’t safe. Here’s hoping whatever’s next gets the spotlight (and resources) it deserves.
Kinda wild how many projects are getting axed lately—feels like Xbox is playing musical chairs with its studios. Fingers crossed Avalanche lands on something equally fresh soon.
Another promising game bites the dust—guess we'll never get to live out our '70s smuggler fantasies. Xbox's recent cuts are starting to feel like they're cleaning house rather than building one.
Between this and the layoffs, Xbox’s strategy seems more like throwing darts blindfolded. Avalanche deserves better than radio silence for four years.