The Future of Canceled Games: Lessons from The Midnight Riders
In a surprising turn of events, the promising retro-futuristic adventure game, The Midnight Riders, has been canceled by NetEase, leading to the closure of Bad Brain Game Studios. This decision highlights the precarious nature of game development, especially for indie studios reliant on funding and partnerships. Despite the setback, studio head Sean Crooks remains hopeful, sharing a sizzle reel in an effort to attract new investors and keep the dream alive.
Set in the nostalgic 1980s, The Midnight Riders follows teenager Josh as he navigates a town plagued by mysterious disappearances. The game’s unique blend of adventure and horror, reminiscent of popular series like Stranger Things, captured the imagination of many. The trailer showcased a vibrant world filled with quirky characters and spine-chilling monsters, making its cancellation all the more disappointing for fans.
As the gaming community reflects on this loss, it raises important questions about the sustainability of creative projects in an industry often driven by financial considerations. Will we see a resurgence of interest in The Midnight Riders, or will it fade into obscurity? Only time will tell, but the passion behind the project suggests that its story may not be over just yet.
Original source: https://www.polygon.com/the-midnight-riders-netease-bad-brain/