By In August, news surfaced that Microsoft had halted development on Contraband, a cooperative smuggler game from Just Cause creator Avalanche. At that point, some sources indicated that Microsoft put a “pause” on production rather than an outright cancellation. However, Contraband’s destiny now seems determined as substantial layoffs at Avalanche have led to the closure of its Liverpool branch.
Avalanche confirmed the information on its official platform and stated that it results in 31 developers losing their positions. According to United Kingdom employment regulations, Avalanche started “a collective consultation process” in September prior to proceeding with the layoffs and studio closure. Nevertheless, the remainder of the company remains sound.
“The extraordinary skills, enthusiasm, and dedication from all those departing have affected every project,” states the message from Avalanche. “We are genuinely appreciative of the commitment and crucial contributions to Avalanche Studios Group. Our aim continues to be supporting the [staff] during this transition and ensuring we keep creating remarkable games for our player communities.”
Contraband was originally announced at an Xbox E3 event in 2021. At that time, it was showcased as a AAA title set in the 1970s in the fictional nation of Bayan. It was not the only long-term project that Microsoft shelved this year. Rare’s Everwild, the Perfect Dark reboot, and a new MMO from ZeniMax Online Studios were all casualties of a downsizing affecting 9,000 personnel, including Xbox staff.
A recent report indicated that Microsoft’s difficulties in stabilizing may stem from excessively high profit objectives that have led to several rounds of layoffs within the organization.
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