IO Interactive's plan after the last Hitman game was to develop a completely new franchise and outsource their own "baby" to another studio.
These plans have since been completely scrapped, and the focus is now entirely back on the Hitman series. At the same time, half the staff has been laid off, which, according to a statement responds to the challenges of today's market.
“We have made significant changes at IO Interactive, adapting our business to a constantly changing and challenging market. Hannes Seifert, former Production Director at the studio, now takes over the position of Studio Director at IO.”
"The studio will consistently focus on the future vision of the Hitman franchise, which is currently in the pre-production phase of a new AAA Hitman project."
The decision to focus exclusively on Hitman also means that all other projects at IO have been put on hold. It is unknown which projects these are and whether they will be transferred to other Square Enix studios.
According to recent statements from Square Enix, sales figures for Hitman: Absolution fell short of expectations, despite significant investment in the reboot.
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