In a disheartening turn of events for gamers eagerly anticipating the release of “Hyenas,” the highly anticipated sci-fi first-person shooter (FPS) developed by Creative Assembly, Sega has confirmed the cancellation of the project, citing a rapidly changing business landscape in the consumer gaming industry.
This announcement signals a somber end to what could have been another triumph for the British studio, known for its critically acclaimed “Alien: Isolation” and the iconic “Total War” series.
Sega made the announcement, which was translated by Sega Sammy, explaining that the decision to cease development on “Hyenas” was driven by the evolving business environment and the unforeseen challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. These factors have compelled Sega to implement structural reforms aimed at enhancing operational efficiency.
Notably, the cancellation of “Hyenas” is not an isolated incident. It is part of Sega’s response to “lower profitability” primarily observed in the European market. Additionally, several other undisclosed projects have also fallen victim to this strategic shift in Sega’s approach.
Thank you all for supporting our recent PC Closed Beta!
While we digest the Plundership's worth of feedback you've kindly given us and figure out where we go next here are some fun facts to keep you occupied! pic.twitter.com/qyEjh9t9iW
— HYENAS (@PlayHyenas) September 22, 2023
At the time of this report, Creative Assembly has refrained from providing an official statement regarding these developments. Surprisingly, the game’s Steam page still tantalizingly promises that it is “coming soon,” despite its unfortunate fate.
What compounds the disappointment for fans is the fact that “Hyenas” had recently conducted a closed beta test, creating anticipation and excitement among the gaming community. The final post on the official Hyenas Twitter page expressed gratitude to the dedicated fanbase for their support while acknowledging the uncertain path ahead.
Creative Assembly, renowned primarily for its historical strategy games, demonstrated its versatility in 2014 with the release of “Alien: Isolation.” This game not only paid homage to Ridley Scott’s iconic 1979 film but also showcased how the Alien franchise could seamlessly translate into the world of video games, delivering both terror and beauty in equal measure.
“Hyenas” was poised to be a “hero-based, multiplayer extraction shooter,” immersing players in a captivating sci-fi universe featuring “epic zero-G combat.” Regrettably, this ambitious vision will never come to fruition. Fans who had the opportunity to experience and enjoy the closed beta will undoubtedly feel a profound sense of loss, as they ponder what might have been.
