In a post on the official Xbox website, Microsoft announced some changes to their internal studios. Fable Legends, the free to play Fable sequel that was in closed alpha, is canceled, and Lionhead Studios, the developer behind Black and White and Fable, is being considered for closing. In addition, Press Play, who developed Max: The Curse of the Brotherhood, will also be 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.”
Neither decision was made easily, according to the statement, and it really is a shame to see two studios disappear so quickly. However, Lionhead, despite the incredible pedigree, hasn’t made a new game since Fable: The Journey, an on-the-rails game using the Kinect. Lionhead last made something outside of the Fable franchise in 2006, painting themselves in an unenviable creative corner.
As a side note, it’s also sad to see Fable Legends just disappear. I had been in the alpha for a bit and I was actually enjoying the game. It was a good, modern, take on the franchise and with some design tweaks could have done really well. And now it won’t see the light of day.
We hope everyone at Lionhead and Press Play lands on their feet soon.
