Last week, we brought you the news that Microsoft was running out of time to save Arkane Lyon (otherwise known as Arkane Studios) from being closed down entirely, and it was suggested at the time that November 13th was a potential deadline for when the consultation process would come to an end.
However, Microsoft has now announced in a statement to PC Gamer that the consultation process has been extended by a month, taking it into December at the very least.
A representative confirmed that options are still being explored to find a solution for the company:
“We have extended the consultation period by one additional month as we explore options, including finding a partner to support the studio through the development work still ahead,” a Microsoft representative told PC Gamer, referring to the Marvel’s Blade game currently in development at Arkane. “This is a defined extension, and we remain committed to keeping the Works Council informed throughout the process.”
“We have extended the consultation period by one additional month as we explore options, including finding a partner to support the studio through the development work still ahead,” a Microsoft representative told PC Gamer, referring to the Marvel’s Blade game currently in development at Arkane. “This is a defined extension, and we remain committed to keeping the Works Council informed throughout the process.”
As you can see, part of the discussions here revolve around getting to the end of development for Marvel’s Blade, which is believed to be close to the finish line after years of work on it.
It’d be a massive shame to see that work go to waste, but it’d be an even bigger shame if Arkane Lyon went under entirely – a studio that has brought us such games as Deathloop, Prey and Dishonored over the years.
Bloomberg reporter Jason Schreier mentioned last week that he’d be shocked if the studio was shut down, and he’s usually one of the most reliable “insiders” in the industry, so here’s hoping his prediction is right!
Of course, we’ll bring you more information on this story if and when it becomes available.
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