Summary
- Transformers: Reactivate has been canceled after a lengthy and troubled development period.
- Some staff members at Splash Damage may be let go as a result.
- The studio is now working on an open-world survival game being built with Unreal Engine 5.
Transformers: Reactivate, a highly anticipated 1-4 player online game featuring Autobots and Decepticons teaming up to combat a new alien threat on Earth, has been officially canceled by Splash Damage. Unveiled with a mysterious trailer at The Game Awards 2022, the game had sparked excitement among Transformers fans. Known for their work on multiplayer aspects of games like Gears 5 and Batman: Arkham Origins, Splash Damage's involvement had raised expectations for what they could bring to the iconic Transformers universe.
Despite the initial buzz, details about Transformers: Reactivate remained scarce in the following years, with only a few leaks and early action figure releases providing glimpses into what could have been. These leaks suggested that the game would have included a Generation 1 roster of playable characters such as Ironhide, Hot Rod, Starscream, and Soundwave, with action figures also showcasing Optimus Prime and Bumblebee. Rumors even hinted at the inclusion of Beast Wars characters, but unfortunately, these plans will not materialize.
Splash Damage announced the cancellation of Transformers: Reactivate after nearly three years of troubled development. In a statement on their Twitter page, the studio expressed that the decision to halt the project was difficult and acknowledged that it might lead to layoffs among the team. They extended their gratitude to the dedicated staff who worked on the game and to Hasbro, the owner of the Transformers brand, for their support throughout the development process.
The news of Transformers: Reactivate's cancellation has elicited mixed reactions from fans. Some are disappointed that they won't get to experience the game, while others had already anticipated its cancellation due to the lack of updates following the initial trailer at TGA 2022.
In the wake of this cancellation, Splash Damage is redirecting its focus to "Project Astrid," a triple-A open-world survival game developed in collaboration with streamers Shroud and Sacriel using Unreal Engine 5. While resources shift to this new project, some layoffs are expected among the staff previously working on Transformers: Reactivate. Meanwhile, Transformers enthusiasts continue to await a new high-quality gaming experience featuring Hasbro's beloved Robots in Disguise.
Summary
Produced By Hasbro and Takara Tomy
