Microsoft has halted development on its co-op action-adventure game Contraband, currently in development at Avalanche Studios Group. The news comes after the studio’s project was active for several years without a release date.
Contraband was first revealed in 2021 with a pre-rendered trailer and promised to be an Xbox console exclusive, set in the 1970s world of Bayan. However, little has been heard about it since its announcement.
In a statement on their website, Avalanche Studios Group expressed gratitude for community interest but emphasized that active development has ceased while they evaluate the project’s future. Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer mentioned the impact of job cuts on the Xbox division in a recent note to employees, stating the need to focus on strategic growth and adaptability.
Source: https://www.polygon.com/contraband-xbox-canceled-avalanche-studios