Funcom Closes The Outsiders, Developer of Metal: Hellsinger
Game publisher Funcom has recently confirmed a series of layoffs and a company-wide restructuring, a move that unfortunately led to the closure of The Outsiders. David Goldfarb, co-founder of the Stockholm-based studio, announced the news, expressing regret over the shutdown.
The Outsiders was established in 2015. Their first project, a fantasy action game called Darkborn, aimed to put players in the role of a monster seeking revenge on humans. While a Take-Two division initially planned to publish the title, Darkborn lost its publisher in 2019 and was ultimately canceled a year later, never seeing a release. Funcom then acquired the studio in 2021.
The Rise and Fall of Metal: Hellsinger
Despite the initial setback with Darkborn, The Outsiders managed to bounce back significantly. In 2022, they released the rhythm-shooter Metal: Hellsinger, a musical combat game where players blast demons to the beat of heavy metal music. The game was met with widespread positive feedback, earning "Very Positive" reviews on Steam and generally good scores from critics.
While specific sales figures for Metal: Hellsinger were not disclosed, it was reported that the game attracted over one million players within its first three months, a number that includes Xbox Game Pass subscribers.
Co-Founder Expresses Sadness and Future Hopes
In his statement regarding The Outsiders' closure, David Goldfarb shared his sorrow that the team, which had previously overcome the cancellation of Darkborn, couldn't navigate this new crisis. "I haven't had time to digest the news, but all of us at The Outsiders and Funcom Stockholm have been impacted by Funcom's downsizing, and our 10-year-old studio is closing," Goldfarb stated. "Many of us endured a period when the studio was on the brink of collapse after the cancellation of Darkborn, and thanks to the team's dedication and refusal to give up, Metal: Hellsinger came to life. It will forever be a highlight for me, and I will be eternally grateful that we were able to make this game, and for the wonderful team and partners who helped bring the idea to life."
Goldfarb added that he and his former colleagues are not giving up and are actively seeking to continue their work "in a new format." He also mentioned that they would welcome any assistance, including business advice and employment opportunities.
The closure of The Outsiders is a poignant reminder of the volatile nature of the video game industry. Even studios that deliver critically acclaimed and popular titles can fall victim to broader corporate restructuring. For players who enjoyed Metal: Hellsinger, this news is undoubtedly disheartening, leaving the future of the franchise uncertain as its original creators move on to new endeavors.
Post a Comment