Avalanche Studios Shuts Liverpool Doors, Jobs Lost

Avalanche Studios Liverpool Shuts Down, Contraband Project Likely Dead

The gaming world has been hit with another blow, folks. Avalanche Studios Group, best known for the explosive "Just Cause" series, has announced the closure of its Liverpool studio. This unfortunate news, revealed on the company's website, means 31 talented developers are now out of work. It's always tough to see studios shuttered; these are real people and livelihoods affected.

Avalanche Studios Shuts Liverpool Doors, Jobs Lost

Now, remember that co-op smuggler game, "Contraband," that was revealed a few years back? Well, things aren't looking good. Back in August, whispers started circulating that Microsoft, who was backing the project, had put it on hold. At the time, there was a glimmer of hope it might just be a temporary pause. Sadly, with the studio closure, it seems "Contraband's" chances of ever seeing the light of day are slim to none.

Avalanche, abiding by UK employment law,

Avalanche, abiding by UK employment law, initiated a "collective consultation process" back in September before making the final decision. It's a legal requirement designed to soften the blow, but let's be honest, it's small comfort when you're facing job loss.

The message from Avalanche was somber, acknowledging the impact of the departing team. "The exceptional talent, passion, and commitment from everyone leaving have impacted every project," they wrote. "We are truly grateful for the dedication and invaluable contributions to Avalanche Studios Group." Their focus, they say, is now on supporting the affected employees through this transition.

"Contraband," initially unveiled with a splash during the Xbox E3 presentation in 2021, promised a AAA experience set in the 1970s within the fictional nation of Bayan. It certainly sounded intriguing at the time.

But the graveyard of cancelled games

But the graveyard of cancelled games is getting a little crowded, isn’t it? "Contraband" isn't alone in its fate. Microsoft has apparently been wielding the axe quite liberally this year. Rare's "Everwild," the "Perfect Dark" reboot, and a new MMO from ZeniMax Online Studios have all fallen victim to a broader restructuring effort that saw a staggering 9,000 people, including many Xbox employees, lose their jobs.

There's been some speculation, and a recent report suggests, that Microsoft's struggles might stem from unrealistically high profit expectations. These lofty goals are, allegedly, leading to multiple rounds of layoffs within the company. It's a worrying trend, and hopefully, things will stabilize soon. We can only hope that those 31 developers from Avalanche land on their feet quickly. The industry needs talented folks like them.