Avalanche Studios Archives

AppWizard

June 30, 2026

After leading the studio through 2 rounds of layoffs and 1 game release, the CEO of Supermassive is stepping down

Robert Henrysson has announced his departure as CEO of Supermassive Games, two months after the launch of Directive 8020. He reflected on his tenure with pride, noting the studio's expansion and commitment to quality. Nordisk Games recognized his contributions and leadership during a transformative period. Directive 8020, part of the Dark Pictures series, received mixed user ratings on Steam but was praised by critics, achieving an 85% rating. Henrysson's leadership occurred amid industry challenges, including layoffs. He plans to spend the summer with his family while remaining open to future opportunities in the gaming industry.

AppWizard

June 21, 2026

5 promising games recently cancelled by Microsoft

Microsoft is undergoing a restructuring that includes layoffs across its game studios and further job cuts and studio closures as part of the "Xbox reset" initiated by new CEO Asha Sharma. This initiative has resulted in the cancellation of several game projects, including: - Odyssey: Shelved in 2024 after challenges in development, including a switch from Unreal Engine to an internal engine. - Everwild: Canceled in 2025 after years of development and at least one reboot. - Perfect Dark: The reboot was canceled in 2025 despite a positive gameplay reveal, with reports of interest from Take-Two Interactive. - Contraband: Development ceased in 2025, leaving the future of the co-op smuggling game uncertain. - Project Blackbird: Canceled in 2025 after over six years of development due to financial concerns regarding the investment required for an MMO. Following the cancellation of Project Blackbird, some team members formed a new studio named Sackbird.

AppWizard

April 2, 2026

Open-world crime game Samson had to be pared back mid-development, which led to its unusual structure: ‘It’s become more unique’

Samson is a game set to launch on Steam and EGS on April 8, where players must meet daily financial targets while managing limited action points. The game emphasizes strategic hand-to-hand combat, having removed gunplay to enhance engagement. Players navigate the city of Tyndalston, utilizing the environment for escape and exploration. Driving mechanics are designed to reflect realism and spontaneity. The development team at Liquid Swords has faced challenges in securing funding and acknowledges the pressure of the upcoming launch, emphasizing their commitment to quality despite potential bugs.

AppWizard

February 26, 2026

The new $25 action game from the creator of Just Cause arrives on April 8

Liquid Swords has announced that Samson: A Tyndalston Story, the debut title from a new studio led by Christofer Sundberg, will launch on April 8. The game features a narrative-driven journey where players control Samson McRay in the city of Tyndalston, dealing with debt and consequential decision-making. Each job consumes Action Points, and players must progress without the option for do-overs. Samson aims to provide a streamlined experience reminiscent of gritty ‘90s action films and is priced modestly. It will be available exclusively for PC through Steam and the Epic Games Store at launch, with no console versions announced. A developer diary has been released detailing the combat and driving mechanics.

AppWizard

November 3, 2025

Just Cause 5 would be a ‘no go’ according to the series’ creator, as ‘extremely few from the original team’ remain at Avalanche Studios

Seven years have passed since Avalanche Studios released a new installment in the Just Cause series, with the last title, Just Cause 4, coming out in 2018. Cristofer Sundberg, the series' creator, indicated that the chances of a new Just Cause game are slim due to the departure of many key creatives. He expressed regret over moving from creative leadership to a corporate role, which he believes contributed to the struggles of Just Cause 4. The development of a new project, Contraband, was halted after significant layoffs at Microsoft, leading to further layoffs at Avalanche Studios. Despite mixed reviews, Just Cause 4 saw improvements through updates. Sundberg's new studio, Liquid Swords, has faced challenges, including staff layoffs, but continues to develop a narrative-driven open-world game.