Epic Games and Disney are reportedly collaborating on a new extraction shooter game, slated for a November release. This project is said to be the first of at least three games stemming from Disney’s significant $1.5 billion investment in Epic Games. The collaboration aims to expand Disney’s reach into the gaming world with new interactive experiences.
Key Takeaways
- Epic Games is developing a Disney-themed extraction shooter.
- The game is reportedly similar in style to ‘Arc Raiders’.
- It is expected to launch in November.
- This is the first of at least three games from the Disney-Epic partnership.
- Internal reviews suggest the game is “not very original” but employees are optimistic.
A New Extraction Shooter Experience
According to reports, the upcoming game will feature Disney characters and adopt the extraction shooter genre, akin to Embark Studios’ ‘Arc Raiders’. Players will likely engage in combat with the goal of reaching an extraction point. While initial internal assessments have described the game’s mechanics as “not very original,” sources indicate that Epic employees are hopeful about its potential by the launch date.
Part of a Larger Collaboration
This extraction shooter is reportedly the first of three games resulting from Disney’s substantial investment in Epic Games. The partnership, announced in 2024, aims to create a “transformational games and entertainment universe” that will extend the reach of beloved Disney stories and characters. However, reports suggest that the development of these games has faced challenges, including disruptions from Epic’s recent layoffs and potential disappointment from Disney regarding release timelines.
Development Challenges and Ambitions
Despite internal critiques about originality, Epic Games has stated that the reports do not fully reflect the ambitions of the Disney collaboration. A spokesperson emphasized that they are building a “new games and entertainment universe of Disney experiences.” The collaboration is part of Disney’s broader strategy to appeal to younger male consumers, a demographic heavily engaged with video games. The success of this extraction shooter could be crucial for Epic, especially following recent layoffs and a reported downturn in ‘Fortnite’ engagement.
Competitive Landscape
The extraction shooter genre is becoming increasingly crowded, with new titles from major developers entering the market. Epic and Disney’s entry will face competition from games like Bungie’s ‘Marathon’ and other upcoming titles in the PvPvE space. The success of this venture will depend on Epic’s ability to innovate within the genre and leverage the broad appeal of Disney’s intellectual properties.
Via Kotaku
