A Sniper Elite battle royale spin-off called Project Archipelago: Sniper Battle Royale has been cancelled due to Tencent withdrawing its funding, as reported by Insider Gaming. The decision came after public playtests during the summer revealed concerns about the game’s potential success.
The cancellation of the project followed Tencent’s apprehension, likely influenced by the failure of PlayStation’s Concord live-service game. Rebellion, the developer behind Sniper Elite, has not provided any official comments regarding the cancellation. Eurogamer has reached out to both Rebellion and Tencent for further clarification on the matter.
Initially, British developer Rebellion had offered “pre-alpha access” to Project Archipelago through a three-day playtest in August. However, there has been minimal information released about the game since then. The trailer for the project showcased teams of snipers engaging in long-range combat in futuristic environments featuring a blend of contemporary and sci-fi elements.
Despite the cancellation, there have been no reported job losses as a result. The developers who were working on Project Archipelago have been reassigned to the next main installment in the Sniper Elite series, titled Sniper Elite: Resistance, scheduled for release on January 28, 2025.
Sony’s Hiroki Totoki commented on the challenges of launching new intellectual property (IP) in the gaming industry, referencing the uncertainties surrounding Concord’s debut and subsequent removal. He emphasized the importance of experimentation in creating new IP, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of audience reception.
The cancellation of Project Archipelago: Sniper Battle Royale serves as a reminder of the competitive and ever-evolving landscape of the gaming industry. While setbacks like these are not uncommon, developers like Rebellion continue to adapt and innovate in response to changing market dynamics. As fans eagerly anticipate the release of Sniper Elite: Resistance, the legacy of the Sniper Elite franchise remains rooted in its commitment to delivering engaging and immersive gaming experiences.
