Transformers: Reactivate Canceled by Splash Damage

Summary

• Transformers: Reactivate, after a prolonged and challenging development, has been canceled.
• This decision may result in layoffs at Splash Damage.
• The studio is now focusing on an open-world survival game, "Project Astrid," built using Unreal Engine 5.

Transformers: Reactivate, a 1-4 player online game featuring Autobots and Decepticons battling a new alien threat on Earth, has been officially canceled by Splash Damage. Announced at The Game Awards 2022, the game generated interest from fans of the Transformers franchise and those familiar with Splash Damage's work on multiplayer elements in titles like Gears 5 and Batman: Arkham Origins.

However, following the initial announcement, information on Transformers: Reactivate remained scarce, limited to leaks and early releases of action figures. These leaks suggested a Generation 1 roster including Ironhide, Hot Rod, Starscream, and Soundwave, with Optimus Prime and Bumblebee also hinted at. Rumors even suggested the inclusion of Beast Wars characters. Ultimately, none of these features will be realized.

Splash Damage announced the cancellation, citing a lengthy and troubled development period. Their statement on Twitter acknowledged the difficult decision and the potential for staff redundancies as the studio redirects its efforts. The developer expressed gratitude to the development team for their dedication and to Hasbro for their support.

Fan reaction has been mixed, with some expressing disappointment while others anticipated the cancellation due to the lack of updates since the 2022 trailer.

Splash Damage's shift in focus towards "Project Astrid," a triple-A open-world survival game built with Unreal Engine 5 (announced in March 2023 in collaboration with streamers Shroud and Sacriel), is now underway. While this new project will absorb resources, the cancellation of Transformers: Reactivate will unfortunately lead to staff reductions. The Transformers fanbase, meanwhile, continues to await a new high-quality game featuring Hasbro's iconic robots.

Summary

Produced By Hasbro and Takara Tomy