Remedy Entertainment has decided to overhaul its previously announced free-to-play multiplayer game, initially known as Vanguard. The game is undergoing a significant transformation and will emerge with a new identity as a premium game under the codename Kestrel. This pivot reflects a strategic shift in the game’s development approach and monetization model.
Project Reboot
The transition from Vanguard to Kestrel marks a significant shift in Remedy’s vision for their multiplayer game. The original concept of Vanguard as a free-to-play title has been shelved in favor of a more traditional premium game model. Below is a comparison of the old and new codenames and their respective game models:
| Old Codename | New Codename |
|---|---|
| Vanguard | Kestrel |
| Free-to-play | Premium game |
Development Shifts
The decision to transition from a free-to-play model to a premium game was influenced by several factors. The rapidly changing landscape of the free-to-play market, along with the associated risks, prompted Remedy and its publisher Tencent to reconsider the game’s direction. Here are the key factors that influenced this decision:
- Uncertainties in creating a successful free-to-play game due to market volatility.
- Risks associated with the free-to-play business model.
- The desire to align the game more closely with Remedy’s core competencies.
Future Plans and Team Changes
With the project’s reboot, Kestrel is now returning to the concept phase of development. This strategic pivot has led to a reshuffling of the development team. Some members who were working on Vanguard will be transitioned to other projects within Remedy, while the core leadership and select members will continue to focus on the new direction for Kestrel. This move is aimed at harnessing the team’s strengths and aligning with Remedy’s expertise in creating compelling cooperative multiplayer experiences.
Impact on Release Schedules
The success of Alan Wake 2 has been substantial, and it may influence the release schedules for Remedy’s upcoming titles. Similar to the post-launch interest in Control, which delayed the commencement of its sequel, Alan Wake 2’s performance could potentially adjust the timelines for future game developments. Remedy’s CEO Tero Virtala has indicated that the company is monitoring the situation and will evaluate its impact on the planned schedules for their games.
In conclusion, the game formerly known as Vanguard has entered a new phase of development under the codename Kestrel. With a shift towards a premium model and a focus on cooperative multiplayer gameplay, anticipation for its release is growing. As the project resets to the concept phase, the gaming community eagerly awaits further details on what this next chapter in Remedy’s storied history will bring.
