Microsoft Cancels Contraband

Microsoft Halts Development of Avalanche Studios' Contraband Amidst Game Challenges

Reports indicate that Microsoft's cooperative open-world action game, Contraband, by Avalanche Studios, may not proceed as planned. While Stephen Totilo of Game File reported the game's cancellation, Avalanche Studios confirmed that active development has paused. This title, initially announced in June 2021 and set in the 1970s, had released little public information since its reveal. Microsoft has not commented on Contraband's status. Game File further reported that Contraband's development began in 2020 and is now suspended. This places it among other recent project challenges for Microsoft, including Everwild and Perfect Dark. Avalanche Studios clarified their position by stating, "Active development has paused while we evaluate the project's future," deliberately avoiding the term "canceled" and suggesting the possibility of a future revival. The situation with Contraband underscores the challenges in AAA game development at Microsoft.

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