Reports and rumors regarding the potential closure of Romero Games circulated widely last week, following the abrupt cancellation of their in-development project. However, the studio, founded by industry veterans John and Brenda Romero, has issued a statement clarifying its status: Romero Games is, definitively, not closed. While the situation is undoubtedly challenging, the team is actively navigating the aftermath of the unexpected setback.
The core issue stemmed from a publisher`s sudden decision to withdraw funding from the studio`s upcoming game. This action, occurring just last week, inevitably put the team in a precarious position, necessitating a “reassessment” of studio staffing. The identity of the publisher remains officially undisclosed by Romero Games, presumably due to contractual obligations.
However, the timing of this funding pull coincided precisely with a significant wave of layoffs and project cancellations across the wider gaming industry, most notably impacting studios under a certain very large platform holder whose name rhymes with `Fix Box`. As Romero Games` statement dryly noted, “some may infer [the publisher`s identity] from public information.” Indeed, connecting the dots in the current industry climate requires little detective work.
Despite the dramatic turn of events, Romero Games appears resilient. Their statement delivered a crucial piece of positive news: interested parties have reportedly reached out to the studio, expressing interest in potentially helping to “bring the game across the finish line.” This suggests that the canceled project might yet see the light of day under different circumstances.
The studio confirmed that the team was in the office recently, discussing potential next steps, further underlining that operations continue. Established in 2015, Romero Games has a track record including the unofficial DOOM follow-ups Sigil and Sigil II, and the strategy title Empire of Sin. The canceled project was understood to be a new first-person shooter, a genre close to John Romero`s roots.
This episode serves as a stark reminder of the volatile nature of game development, particularly in the current environment. The industry has witnessed widespread restructuring, with thousands of employees affected and numerous projects shelved by major companies like the one strongly implied here. That Romero Games has managed to remain operational and is already exploring new avenues speaks volumes about their determination.
While the road ahead involves necessary adjustments, the message from Galway is clear: Romero Games is still in the fight.
