Sony Cancels Twisted Metal Battle Royale Game
Sony has officially scrapped its ambitious Twisted Metal reboot, which was envisioned as a third-person shooter with a Battle Royale twist. Developed by the UK-based studio Firesprite, the project was halted amid significant layoffs at Sony’s PlayStation division last year. The last installment of the Twisted Metal series was released in 2012, leaving fans eager for a new entry that will now remain unrealized.
Details of the Cancelled Project
The cancelled Twisted Metal game, referred to internally as “Project Copper,” was designed for the PlayStation 5. Although Sony has not disclosed specific details about the game, insights from a former Firesprite developer’s online portfolio have shed light on its features. The developer, who served as the Lead UI Programmer at Firesprite, described the game as a third-person vehicular combat title that aimed to incorporate mechanics typical of Battle Royale games.
According to the portfolio, “Project Copper” was intended to combine third-person shooting with vehicle combat, with players competing to be the last one standing. This innovative approach aimed to breathe new life into the classic Twisted Metal franchise, which has been a beloved part of PlayStation’s history. The developer also shared blurred screenshots that hinted at the game’s UI design and gameplay elements, showcasing the potential for intense vehicular battles.
Impact of Layoffs on Development
The cancellation of the Twisted Metal reboot was part of a broader restructuring at Sony, which saw approximately 900 jobs cut from its PlayStation unit in February 2024. This significant reduction in workforce affected around eight percent of PlayStation staff globally, including those at Firesprite. The layoffs were reported by Bloomberg and were indicative of Sony’s shifting strategy regarding live service games.
In addition to the Twisted Metal cancellation, Sony also halted two other unannounced live service projects earlier this year, which were in development at Bend Studio and Bluepoint Games. This trend suggests a strategic retreat from the live service model, as the company reassesses its portfolio and focuses on more traditional gaming experiences.
The Future of Twisted Metal
The Twisted Metal series has a storied legacy, with its last release being a PS3 exclusive over a decade ago. Fans have long awaited a revival of the franchise, and the cancellation of this latest project has left many disappointed. While Sony has not indicated any immediate plans for a new Twisted Metal title, the enduring popularity of the series suggests that it may eventually return in some form.
As the gaming landscape evolves, it remains to be seen how Sony will navigate its future projects and whether it will reconsider the potential of the Twisted Metal franchise. For now, the cancellation of “Project Copper” serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by developers in an ever-changing industry.
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