The Xbox Exclusive That Never Was: A Sneak Peek at What Could Have Been
In a surprising turn of events, some early screenshots of the highly anticipated Xbox exclusive, Contraband, have surfaced online, offering a glimpse into a game that sadly never came to fruition. This story is a reminder of the fragility of the gaming industry and the potential losses that can occur.
Contraband was first unveiled in 2021, and four years later, Microsoft and Avalanche Studios made the difficult decision to halt its development. During those four years, we were left in the dark, with little to no information about the game's progress or its actual appearance. But now, these leaked screenshots provide a small window into the game's early stages.
The Leaked Screenshots: A Glimpse into the Past
As shared by MP1st, a collection of screenshots has emerged, giving us a look at how Contraband's matchmaking and core gameplay mechanics might have functioned. It's important to note that these screenshots are from an early build, and the character models featured are likely placeholders. In fact, they were previously used in a Marvel project, indicating that the final aesthetic was still in development.
What's intriguing about these screenshots is the UI design and a subtle hint at the 'Downtown' area. It's a shame that we'll never get to explore this world further, as the game's cancellation also led to the closure of Avalanche Studios' UK branch.
The Future of Avalanche Studios: A Hopeful Outlook
Despite this setback, we can't help but remain optimistic about the future of Avalanche Studios. The developers behind the beloved Just Cause series, they have proven their ability to create immersive and action-packed experiences. We can only hope that they'll bounce back and deliver another fantastic game for Xbox fans to enjoy.
Your Thoughts: A Conversation Starter
What are your initial impressions of these early screenshots? Do they spark any curiosity or disappointment? Join the discussion below and share your thoughts on Contraband. We'd love to hear your opinions and engage in a friendly debate about this intriguing, yet controversial, development.
[Source: mp1st.com]
Author: Ben, a News Writer at Pure Xbox, passionate about action-packed gaming experiences.
