The Cancellation of The Midnight Riders: A Missed Opportunity for Gamers
The recent cancellation of The Midnight Riders, a retro-futuristic adventure game by Bad Brain Game Studios, highlights a significant loss for the gaming community. Despite the promising premise and nostalgic 1980s setting, the game was shelved as part of NetEase’s cost-cutting measures, leaving fans and developers alike wondering what could have been. The game’s head, Sean Crooks, shared a sizzle reel in hopes of attracting new investors, showcasing a world filled with mystery and adventure reminiscent of beloved classics like Stranger Things.
Set against a backdrop of missing children and nightmarish creatures, The Midnight Riders promised an engaging narrative with gameplay elements that harkened back to the golden age of gaming. Players would have followed Josh, a teenager on a quest to uncover the truth behind the disappearances, navigating both real and surreal environments. The potential for a rich, immersive experience was evident, making its cancellation all the more disheartening.
While Bad Brain Game Studios and NetEase are open to selling the game’s IP, the future of The Midnight Riders remains uncertain. This situation raises questions about the sustainability of indie game development and the importance of supporting innovative projects. Will we see a revival of this intriguing concept, or will it fade into obscurity like so many other canceled games? Only time will tell.
Original source: https://www.polygon.com/the-midnight-riders-netease-bad-brain/