Microsoft halts development on Contraband

The anticipated game Contraband has officially stopped development after four years.

Microsoft halts development on Avalanche Studios’ Contraband

Microsoft has confirmed the halt of development for Contraband by Avalanche Studios. Initially announced in 2021, the game aimed to create a cooperative open-world experience set in the 1970s. While Avalanche had previously touted this as their most ambitious game, no substantial updates have been released since its reveal. The studio acknowledged that they are evaluating the project's future without detailing a specific timeline for updates. The pause in development comes amid broader layoffs within Microsoft's gaming division, which have impacted multiple projects, including Rare’s Everwild and Perfect Dark.

The cessation of Contraband's development reflects a concerning trend within Microsoft's gaming sector. As the company undergoes significant organizational changes, including recent layoffs, the status of several high-profile projects hangs in doubt. This situation raises questions about the long-term viability of Microsoft's gaming ambitions. The industry's competitive landscape requires constant innovation and adaptation, and the abandonment of major titles could signal broader strategy shifts or resource allocation challenges.

Highlights

The future of Contraband and Microsoft’s gaming plans will become clearer in the coming months.