Key Highlights
- Jar of Sparks, a game studio founded by Jerry Hook, has paused development on its inaugural game and is in search of a new publishing partner.
- NetEase, a leading video game company, continues to support key live-service titles such as Once Human and Marvel Rivals.
- Jerry Hook, former head of design for Halo Infinite, established Jar of Sparks in 2022 after leaving Microsoft and 343 Industries.
Jar of Sparks Studio Pauses Development on Its First Game
Jerry Hook, the former head of design at Halo Infinite, announced that his gaming studio, Jar of Sparks, which operates under the auspices of NetEase, has ceased development on its first project. After parting ways with 343 Industries and Microsoft in 2022, Hook aimed to forge a new path with his studio, focusing on pioneering narrative-driven action games. The lack of updates from Jar of Sparks has raised concerns, and it is now confirmed that the team is actively scouting for a new publishing partner to continue their creative journey.
Established in 1997 by Ding Lei, NetEase has evolved into one of the largest gaming companies globally, providing a wide range of online PC and mobile gaming experiences, alongside advertising and e-commerce services. Currently, the company backs titles like Once Human and the anticipated hero shooter Marvel Rivals, which is set to release a Season 1 Battle Pass featuring fresh skins amidst new content including the arrival of the Fantastic Four.
In a recent LinkedIn update, Hook detailed that the current development work has been halted as they seek a new publisher. He expressed the group’s aspirations to collaborate with a partner capable of realizing their innovative vision. Hook acknowledged the groundbreaking efforts made by his team to explore uncharted territory within the gaming landscape since their inception.
While Hook did not mention any layoffs in his communication, he emphasized that the next phase would involve the team members “exploring new opportunities.” Additionally, in a separate LinkedIn post, Hook noted that efforts would be made to assist the team in seeking new positions as they conclude their first project in the coming weeks. This development mirrors other incidents where experienced industry professionals, like former Resident Evil producer Hiroyuki Kobayashi, have established new studios under NetEase’s banner.
The Halo franchise, where Hook made his mark, has faced numerous challenges in recent years, particularly concerning post-launch support for Halo Infinite and the mixed reviews of its live-action series on Paramount+. As Jar of Sparks takes this transitional phase, the Halo universe might be on the verge of a revitalization, especially with 343 Industries’ recent rebranding to Halo Studios. Rumors suggest upcoming titles may leverage Unreal Engine, which could lead to innovative advancements that rejuvenate the franchise.
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