As the video game industry grapples with the aftermath of widespread layoffs and studio closures, it’s a welcome respite to witness a select few talents emerge from the ashes, defying expectations and achieving success against all odds. Wolfeye Studios, the developer behind the critically acclaimed immersive sim Bizarre West, is now working on its next project.
The company’s lack of reputation notwithstanding, Wolfeye announces the formal commencement of manufacturing operations. The even higher information? This nostalgic venture back to their heritage is truly thrilling for the team.
Unfamiliar with Wolfeye’s remarkable heritage? Comprising a team of veteran developers from Arkane’s Austin and Lyon studios, Wolfeye’s formation is notably significant in light of the recent studio closures, including that of its parent company.
Wolfeye’s inaugural creation was the highly praised, isometric motion RPG Bizarre West, effectively redefining the immersive sim genre through a fresh and innovative perspective. As a direct outcome of the developer’s success with Dishonored and Prey, its next project takes shape in the form of a first-person RPG, setting the stage for a potential sequel or spiritual successor to these critically acclaimed titles?
At present, we possess only the most fleeting of clues concerning the recreation. The studio is embarking on its inaugural foray into first-person narrative, a bold creative experiment that will undoubtedly challenge and intrigue audiences. While we have set aside a limited number of art pieces, our overall understanding of what to expect remains somewhat vague.
The game’s vintage futuristic visual style is particularly noteworthy. At the Game Developers Conference (GDC) earlier this year, Wolfeye revealed a cryptic teaser in the form of a whiteboard featuring only two phrases: “Retro Sci-Fi” and “First-Person”. The sport has remained in development limbo since that fateful day.
Intriguingly, the developer disclosed that the group’s involvement was essential from the outset in crafting this particular project. I will likely work on a restricted alpha sometime in 2025 to gather initial insights. This will be a non-public review; however, you can register on the official website for the chance to be selected for the shortlist.
The game’s creators have promised a richly detailed world, the flexibility to play the game in any way that suits players’ preferences, and a deeply immersive role-playing experience – exactly what fans have come to expect from this talented team.
“Familiar territory awaits fans of the Dishonored and Prey series, as well as those who appreciate RPGs,” said creative director Raphael Colantonio.
While seeking a precise publishing partner, our focus remains fixed on driving our community’s involvement in the game’s development through a limited personal alpha test in 2025. “We shouldn’t assume that our followers will automatically know what we’re working on.”
