Development of Xbox and Just Cause Studio’s Co-op Game Contraband Halted

Development of Xbox Exclusive ‘Contraband’ Hits a Standstill

Recent reports suggest that Xbox may be facing yet another setback with the anticipated release of the game ‘Contraband, ’ an exclusive cooperative experience developed in partnership with Avalanche Studios. Initially announced in 2021, this title aimed to immerse players in a dynamic smuggling scenario, yet little information has emerged since the cinematic trailer debuted.

Earlier today, notable industry sources including Game File and Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier shared alarming news regarding the suspension or potential cancellation of ‘Contraband.’ Shortly thereafter, Avalanche Studios formally addressed the situation through a statement on their official website.

“Over the past several years, Avalanche Studios Group and Xbox Game Studios Publishing have collaborated on Contraband, ”the studio’s statement notes.“Active development has now stopped while we evaluate the project’s future. We’re thankful for the excitement we’ve seen from the community since we announced and will give an update on what’s next as soon as we can.”

While the project hasn’t been definitively canceled, the prospects for its revival appear uncertain. The current phase of development remains ambiguous, prompting concerns among fans eager for updates.

Originally, the development team, known for their work on the Just Cause series, utilized their proprietary Apex Engine to support this ambitious co-op project. The game director, Omar Shakir, expressed enthusiasm about harnessing the engine’s unique features, particularly optimized for the Xbox Series X|S.

In a reveal from 2022, it was disclosed that ‘Contraband’ would incorporate vehicular combat, adding a layer of excitement to the smuggling gameplay. However, 2024 saw Avalanche Studios experience significant upheaval, resulting in layoffs that affected two of its locations and led to a staff reduction of approximately 50 employees.

If the cancellation of ‘Contraband’ materializes, it will be among several high-profile Xbox projects that have encountered similar fates this year, including ‘Perfect Dark, ’ ‘Everwild, ’ and a canceled MMORPG from ZeniMax Online.

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