Netflix closes AAA game studio in California featuring God of War, Halo experts

In 2021, Netflix began to reveal its ambitions in the gaming industry, indicating plans to integrate mobile gaming into its offerings. By late 2022, the streaming giant had made significant moves to enter the AAA game development arena, with the appointment of Chacko Sonny, a former executive producer from Overwatch, tasked with establishing a new studio dedicated to this high-profile venture.

However, developments during the following two years have altered the trajectory of these plans. A recent report from Stephen Totilo of Game File indicates that the ‘Team Blue’ studio focused on creating the anticipated AAA title has been shuttered, resulting in the dismissal of all employees associated with the project. This studio had attracted several prominent industry figures to work on its ambitious next-generation gaming initiative.

Joseph Staten, known for his extensive work on the Halo series at both Bungie and 343 Industries, was serving as the Creative Director for the studio. Staten is well-known among Halo enthusiasts, having recently led the single-player campaign for Halo Infinite.

Screenshot from Halo Infinite featuring Master Chief

Staten transitioned from his leadership role at 343 in 2023 to join Netflix Games, where he expressed excitement about initiating work on a “completely new AAA multiplatform game and original intellectual property.”

Additionally, Raf Grassetti, recognized for his artistic contributions to the God of War franchise as art director at Santa Monica Studio, joined the Netflix team in 2023. He noted his enthusiasm about collaborating with “Joseph Staten, Jerry Edsall, and Chacko Sonny” to develop this initiative focused on AAA originality.

Regrettably, no further details regarding this enigmatic project have emerged, and given the studio’s closure, it’s uncertain if more information will ever be disclosed. Although Netflix’s aspirations in the AAA sector seem to be dwindling, the platform is actively advancing its mobile gaming endeavors, providing subscribers with an ever-expanding library of games that continues to grow each month.

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