Summary
- After a prolonged and challenging development, Transformers: Reactivate has been canceled.
- This may result in some layoffs at Splash Damage.
- The studio is now focusing on an open-world survival game, Project Astrid, built using Unreal Engine 5.
Transformers: Reactivate, a 1-4 player online game featuring Autobots and Decepticons battling a new alien threat on Earth, was unveiled at The Game Awards 2022. Developed by Splash Damage, known for their work on multiplayer aspects of titles like Gears 5 and Batman: Arkham Origins, the game generated anticipation among fans.
However, following the initial announcement, information about Transformers: Reactivate remained scarce, aside from leaks and early action figure releases. These leaks suggested a Generation 1 roster including Ironhide, Hot Rod, Starscream, and Soundwave, with Optimus Prime and Bumblebee also hinted at. Rumors even suggested the inclusion of Beast Wars characters. Ultimately, none of these features will be realized.
Splash Damage recently announced the cancellation of Transformers: Reactivate after a lengthy and difficult development process. A statement on their Twitter page explained the difficult decision and acknowledged potential redundancies affecting some staff members as the studio refocuses its efforts. The studio expressed gratitude to the development team and Hasbro for their support. Fan reactions have been mixed, with some expressing disappointment while others anticipated the cancellation due to the lack of updates since the initial trailer.
Splash Damage's shift in focus is now toward Project Astrid, a triple-A open-world survival game developed in collaboration with streamers Shroud and Sacriel and powered by Unreal Engine 5. This transition, while promising for the studio's future, unfortunately necessitates layoffs following the Transformers: Reactivate cancellation. The news leaves Transformers fans awaiting a new high-quality game featuring Hasbro's iconic robots.
Summary
Produced By Hasbro and Takara Tomy
