Summary
11 Bit Studios, the Polish studio behind the breakout hitFrostpunkand its sequel,Frostpunk 2, has announced that its first console-specific video game has been canceled. Additionally, as a result of the cancelation, layoffs will follow.
As first spotted by GameSpot,a statement from president Przemysław Marszał was shared on the official 11 Bit Studios website, where the head discussed the news, as well as some of the surrounding circumstances at hand.
Other Projects Are Seemingly Still In The Works
Per the statement, the planned title was codenamed Project 8, and it involved as many as 37 developers as late as September this year. Its development began in 2018, with its budget stretching to 48.4 million PLN, or the equivalent of nearly 11.8 million USD.
“Our vision for Project 8, which was intended to be our first title designed specifically for console gamers, was bold and exciting. However, it was conceived under very different market conditions, when narrative-driven, story-rich games held stronger appeal,” Marszał said.
Beyond alleged shifts in the market, Marszał also discussed the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic. The impact caused delays to milestones, which forced the budget to balloon.
An investigation of the most recent milestone led to findings that would necessitate further delays and increased budget costs. As a result, the board of “11 Bit Studios lost confidence in completing Project 8 within a reasonable timeframe and at a satisfactory quality level.”
As is the case with other cancelations, a reduction of staff, or layoffs will also take place. It’s unclear just how many employees will be impacted. That said, 11 Bit Studios does believe that some of the work done can be repurposed for future projects, while also noting that there are other projects in the pipeline that “will help fill the gap left by Project 8.”
