All articles tagged with #zenimax online
A group of former ZeniMax Online developers have founded Sackbird Studios, an independent, employee-owned studio focused on creating original games for PC and consoles, motivated by a desire for creative freedom after layoffs and project cancellations at their previous employer.
The article discusses upcoming and canceled video game projects, including Microsoft's leaked Blackbird MMORPG, Elder Scrolls Online's free-to-play period, Dan Houser's new AAA sci-fi game with Smilegate, and other gaming news like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Tactical Takedown and Vile: Exhumed returning for free. It highlights the ongoing developments and cancellations in the gaming industry, emphasizing the excitement and disappointment surrounding these titles.
Despite the cancellation of Project Blackbird at ZeniMax Online, no developers have been laid off, and they remain employed with full benefits as the studio discusses future plans with Microsoft and the union. This contrasts with other recent game project cancellations and studio downsizing by Microsoft.
Microsoft's canceled ZeniMax Online game, codenamed Blackbird, was a highly anticipated sci-fi third-person shooter that Phil Spencer enjoyed playing, but it was ultimately canceled in July likely due to high production costs despite positive early feedback and impressive gameplay footage, highlighting the unpredictable nature of game development and corporate decision-making.
ZeniMax Online is working on a resolution with a fan artist who claims the studio used their work without consent in Elder Scrolls Online. The artist's work was allegedly copy-pasted into the game as a cosmetic item available for purchase. ZeniMax Online responded to the artist's complaint on Twitter, stating that they are in contact with the artist and will work towards a proper resolution.