Saints Row was one of the most disastrous launches of last year. Despite the series being iconic within the gaming community, the new game was just not up to the standards previous entries had set. And now, Volition Games, the studio behind Saints Row, has announced that it is officially closed down. This news comes only days after the game was announced to be part of September’s PS Plus monthly lineup.
The studio’s closure is apparently tied to the parent company, Embracer’s Group, and its restructuring program. Though many have speculated that it may be because their headlining title did not perform well commercially or critically. At the time of release, many pointed out the game’s inadequate performance, as well as its lack of meaningful content.
Saints Row Developer Announces Studio Closure
Volition Games announced its closure on its socials, despite announcing their 30th anniversary earlier this year. In its official statement, Volition Games said,
“The Volition team has proudly created world-class entertainment for fans around the globe for 30 years. We’ve been driven by a passion for our community and always worked to deliver joy, surprise, and delight.”
The main crux of the studio’s post focuses on the parent company’s restructuring plan, which includes Volition Games being shut down effective immediately.
“This past June. Embracer Group announced a restructuring program to strengthen Embracer and maintain its position as a leader in the video game industry. As part of that program, they evaluated strategic and operational goals and made the difficult decision to close Volition effective immediately.”
The statement concludes by offering assistance to the studio’s former employees for job opportunities, as well as thanking its fans for their continued support throughout the years.
In a financial report shared November of last year, Volition’s parent company, Embracer, mentioned that the game’s commercial performance “did not meet the full expectations and left the fanbase partially polarised”. The developers of the planned reboot also became part of Borderlands maker Gearbox.
Also Read: Third Expansion to Saints Row Announced
Saints Row to be Part of September’s Lineup for Monthly PS Plus Games Despite Studio Closure
A few days ago, PlayStation announced that the Saints Row reboot will be part of the PS Plus Essential monthly games lineup, along with Black Desert – Traveler Edition, and Generation Zero.
Unfortunately, it seems like this won’t be enough to save the studio from closing. Many have vented their frustration with the new PS Plus prices and aren’t too keen on the games being offered this month.
Nevertheless, Saints Row has served as a reminder to game studios and publishers that even if an IP has a widely recognised name, it won’t be enough if the game isn’t well made and optimised. This news has left many questioning the future of the Saints Row franchise. Whatever the case, it will probably be a while before we hear anything new from the franchise.
How do you feel about this? Do you think Saints Row deserved the negative criticism? Let us know in the comments!
Source: Volition Games
Follow us for more entertainment coverage on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
