Xbox Exclusive Contraband Sees Screenshots Leak Shortly After Microsoft Cancellation

Back in August, it was confirmed that Microsoft and Avalanche Studios had officially ceased development on the Xbox exclusive Contraband, four years subsequent to the game’s initial announcement. During those four years, we had witnessed virtually nothing regarding how the game would actually appear – but now, a few early screenshots have surfaced that at least reveal some preliminary UI from the once-anticipated Xbox venture.

As reported by MP1st, a collection of early screenshots are now available online that illustrate how the game would function concerning matchmaking and diving into the core of the experience. Keep in mind, it was revealed that Contraband was envisioned as a live service title – so this was likely the direction that Xbox and Avalanche Studios were heading towards, making it an online-centered experience.

Here’s a view of those early screenshots:

MP1st has provided an update indicating that the character models shown here are likely temporary; they discovered that these were also utilized as part of a Marvel project from another games industry artist. The design of those models was likely not final – and the more intriguing aspect here is how the UI appears, along with that slight indication of what the ‘Downtown’ area may have looked like in-game.

Regrettably, this will never become a reality now – and following the game’s discontinuation, the studio also confirmed that it had shut down its UK division “due to present challenges to our business and the industry”. Here’s wishing that the Just Cause developer regains its momentum and presents another experience Xbox enthusiasts can appreciate down the line.

What’s your perspective on these early screenshots? Share your thoughts about Contraband below.