Myst, a groundbreaking title that dominated the PC gaming landscape for years, not only set records as the best-selling PC video game of all time but also played a pivotal role in ushering in the CD-ROM era. Released in 1993, it was a game that redefined the possibilities of interactive storytelling and visual fidelity. However, the fortunes of its developer, Cyan Worlds, have taken a downturn since the release of Myst 5: End of Ages in 2005, which, while well-received, did not achieve significant commercial success. Following a series of financial challenges, Cyan has shifted its focus to projects reminiscent of Myst, such as Firmament and Obduction, both of which relied on crowdfunding to come to fruition.
In a significant move in 2025, Cyan laid off approximately half of its workforce, prompting industry commentators like PC Gamer’s Justin Wagner to express concern over the struggles faced by this historic indie studio. The situation took an unexpected turn recently when Cyan unveiled a teaser for a new Myst game, codenamed Project Anglerfish. The teaser generated excitement among fans, showcasing impressive visuals and a nostalgic atmosphere. However, Cyan clarified that the project is not currently in development due to a lack of interest from publishers.
Insights into Project Anglerfish
Cyan disclosed that it had dedicated four months to developing a prototype for Project Anglerfish in 2025, specifically designed for potential publishers. The teaser video was crafted with the same intent, but ultimately, the project could not progress. Despite this setback, Cyan expressed pride in the team’s work and decided to share the teaser with the public.
Reactions to the teaser have been mixed, with many fans expressing disappointment that it does not signal the arrival of a new game but rather a glimpse into what could have been. Comments from the community reflect a deep yearning for a continuation of the Myst legacy, with sentiments ranging from sadness over the project’s cancellation to enthusiastic calls for its revival. The prototype’s aesthetic and concept have resonated strongly, leading to a wave of requests for Cyan to reconsider its decision.
While the nostalgia surrounding Myst is palpable, it is also understandable why publishers might hesitate to invest in a new installment. The gaming landscape has evolved significantly since Myst’s heyday, and the market for adventure games with intricate puzzles may not be as robust as it once was. The challenge lies in bridging the gap between the fond memories evoked by a brief teaser and the reality of engaging with a genre that demands patience and commitment from players.
Yet, there remains a dedicated audience eager for a new Myst experience. This demographic, though smaller than the massive player bases of contemporary titles like Fortnite or Roblox, is passionate and willing to support projects they believe in. Given Cyan’s previous successes with crowdfunding campaigns for titles like Obduction and Firmament, one might wonder why the studio has not pursued a similar strategy for a new Myst game. The potential for a successful campaign seems promising, especially considering the overwhelming support for the Myst 25th Anniversary Collection, which raised over .8 million on Kickstarter in 2018.
As the gaming community reflects on the teaser for Project Anglerfish, there is a glimmer of hope that this showcase might serve as a litmus test for interest in a new Myst game. While it may not be in active development at this moment, the future remains uncertain. Perhaps, in time, the stars will align, and fans will once again embark on a journey through the captivating worlds of Myst.
Cyan releases teaser for the first new Myst game in 20 years, then breaks the news that it’s not actually being made
Myst, a groundbreaking title that dominated the PC gaming landscape for years, not only set records as the best-selling PC video game of all time but also played a pivotal role in ushering in the CD-ROM era. Released in 1993, it was a game that redefined the possibilities of interactive storytelling and visual fidelity. However, the fortunes of its developer, Cyan Worlds, have taken a downturn since the release of Myst 5: End of Ages in 2005, which, while well-received, did not achieve significant commercial success. Following a series of financial challenges, Cyan has shifted its focus to projects reminiscent of Myst, such as Firmament and Obduction, both of which relied on crowdfunding to come to fruition.
In a significant move in 2025, Cyan laid off approximately half of its workforce, prompting industry commentators like PC Gamer’s Justin Wagner to express concern over the struggles faced by this historic indie studio. The situation took an unexpected turn recently when Cyan unveiled a teaser for a new Myst game, codenamed Project Anglerfish. The teaser generated excitement among fans, showcasing impressive visuals and a nostalgic atmosphere. However, Cyan clarified that the project is not currently in development due to a lack of interest from publishers.
Insights into Project Anglerfish
Cyan disclosed that it had dedicated four months to developing a prototype for Project Anglerfish in 2025, specifically designed for potential publishers. The teaser video was crafted with the same intent, but ultimately, the project could not progress. Despite this setback, Cyan expressed pride in the team’s work and decided to share the teaser with the public.
Reactions to the teaser have been mixed, with many fans expressing disappointment that it does not signal the arrival of a new game but rather a glimpse into what could have been. Comments from the community reflect a deep yearning for a continuation of the Myst legacy, with sentiments ranging from sadness over the project’s cancellation to enthusiastic calls for its revival. The prototype’s aesthetic and concept have resonated strongly, leading to a wave of requests for Cyan to reconsider its decision.
While the nostalgia surrounding Myst is palpable, it is also understandable why publishers might hesitate to invest in a new installment. The gaming landscape has evolved significantly since Myst’s heyday, and the market for adventure games with intricate puzzles may not be as robust as it once was. The challenge lies in bridging the gap between the fond memories evoked by a brief teaser and the reality of engaging with a genre that demands patience and commitment from players.
Yet, there remains a dedicated audience eager for a new Myst experience. This demographic, though smaller than the massive player bases of contemporary titles like Fortnite or Roblox, is passionate and willing to support projects they believe in. Given Cyan’s previous successes with crowdfunding campaigns for titles like Obduction and Firmament, one might wonder why the studio has not pursued a similar strategy for a new Myst game. The potential for a successful campaign seems promising, especially considering the overwhelming support for the Myst 25th Anniversary Collection, which raised over .8 million on Kickstarter in 2018.
As the gaming community reflects on the teaser for Project Anglerfish, there is a glimmer of hope that this showcase might serve as a litmus test for interest in a new Myst game. While it may not be in active development at this moment, the future remains uncertain. Perhaps, in time, the stars will align, and fans will once again embark on a journey through the captivating worlds of Myst.