Last June, the cost-cutting measures undertaken by Microsoft raised the threat of a studio closure and, with it, the possibility of a full cancellation of the Marvel’s Blade game, which was reportedly slated for release sometime in late 2027.
Ubisoft candidate to buy Arkane Studios
Two weeks ago, new information revealed that Microsoft was actively seeking a buyer or partner for Arkane Studios, ahead of a French legal deadline set for December. To date, Ubisoft is the only candidate whose identity has been revealed. At least two other companies are also said to be in the running and to have submitted offers. Xbox is also said to have considered transferring the studio to its own management team.
The amounts and terms of the proposals remain unknown, and no agreement has yet been reached.
Marvel’s Blade intended for an adult audience
However, if a deal were to go through, it could allow Arkane Studios to continue and complete development of Marvel’s Blade. The game stars Eric Brooks, aka Blade, the famous vampire hunter, himself half human, half vampire, capable of moving around in broad daylight. Presented as a third-person action game, exclusively single-player and intended for an adult audience, Marvel’s Blade is expected to take place in the heart of Paris.
Clearly, after the abandonment of the cinematic reboot with Mahershala Ali, mired for years in development limbo, now it is the video game’s turn to risk being shelved. It really is not a good time to be a Blade fan.