Transformers: Reactivate Officially Cancelled by Splash Damage
After a prolonged and challenging development, Splash Damage has announced the cancellation of its highly anticipated title, Transformers: Reactivate. This news follows a cryptic trailer reveal at The Game Awards 2022, generating excitement but ultimately leading to disappointment for fans. The 1-4 player online game, featuring a collaborative Autobot and Decepticon storyline against a new alien threat, was met with initial interest given Splash Damage's experience with multiplayer titles like Gears 5 and Batman: Arkham Origins.
Despite early leaks and toy releases hinting at a Generation 1 roster (Ironhide, Hot Rod, Starscream, Soundwave, with rumored appearances by Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, and even Beast Wars characters), Transformers: Reactivate remained largely shrouded in mystery. The lack of substantial updates following the initial trailer fueled speculation, ultimately proving correct with the recent cancellation announcement.
Splash Damage's official statement expressed the difficult nature of this decision, acknowledging potential staff redundancies as the studio shifts its focus. The developer expressed gratitude towards the development team and Hasbro for their support. Fan reactions are varied, with some expressing disappointment while others anticipated the cancellation given the prolonged silence.
The studio's future now lies with "Project Astrid," a AAA open-world survival game built using Unreal Engine 5, announced in March 2023 in collaboration with streamers Shroud and Sacriel. While resources will be redirected to this new project, the cancellation of Transformers: Reactivate will unfortunately result in job losses for some within the development team. The wait continues for a high-quality, AAA Transformers gaming experience.
Summary:
- Cancellation: Transformers: Reactivate cancelled after a troubled development.
- Layoffs: Potential job losses at Splash Damage.
- New Focus: Studio now developing open-world survival game ("Project Astrid") using Unreal Engine 5.
- Producers: Hasbro and Takara Tomy
