Fable Legends Cancelled, Lionhead Closure in Discussions
Microsoft has announced it has ceased development of Fable Legends and is in discussions to close Lionhead Studios. The news was revealed on the official Xbox newswire by Hanno Lemke, general manager of Microsoft Studios Europe.
"After much consideration we have decided to cease development on Fable Legends, and are in discussions with employees about the proposed closure of Lionhead Studios in the UK," he explained.
He went on to confirm Denmark-based Press Play Studios, which is known for Kalimba and Max: The Curse of Brotherhood, has also been closed.
"These have been tough decisions and we have not made them lightly, nor are they a reflection on these development teams--we are incredibly fortunate to have the talent, creativity and commitment of the people at these studios," he continued.
"The Lionhead Studios team has delighted millions of fans with the Fable series over the past decade. Press Play imbued the industry with a unique creative spirit behind games like Max: The Curse of Brotherhood and Kalimba, which both captured passionate fans."
Lionhead, a British studio founded by Peter Molyneux in 1996, has developed acclaimed titles in the Black & White and Fable series'. It was acquired by Microsoft in 2006.
In his statement, Lemke said Microsoft will remain focused on investing and developing first-party games. It will also support those impacted by the closure and cancellation.
"These changes are taking effect as Microsoft Studios continues to focus its investment and development on the games and franchises that fans find most exciting and want to play," he said.
"I speak for all of Xbox when I say that despite this news, we remain committed to the development communities in the UK and Europe, and Xbox will continue to support new IP and originality in the games we offer on our platforms, whether they’re AAA blockbusters likeQuantum Break from Remedy, adventurous new IPs like Sea of Thieves from Rare, or unique new creations from independent developers like Moon Studios with Ori."
He added: "We have nothing but heart-felt thanks for the members of Lionhead and Press Play for their contributions to Xbox and gaming. We are committed to working closely with those affected by today’s news to find them new opportunities at Xbox, or partnering with the broader development community to help place them in jobs elsewhere in the games industry should they desire."
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/fable-legends-cancelled-lionhead-closure-in-discus/1100-6435421/?ftag=GSS-05-10aaa0b