People Can Fly, the studio behind titles like Outriders and Bulletstorm, is once again making waves. This time, it’s all about its upcoming project, intriguingly codenamed ‘Project Maverick’. The buzz around this project has been steadily building, especially with the studio’s recent job listings and the hints dropped about its collaboration with Microsoft.
Earlier this year, reports began circulating about Microsoft’s partnership with People Can Fly, alluding to a game with a budget ranging between $30 million and $50 million. Now, the recent job listings have only added fuel to the fire.
First noticed by Xbox insider @klobrille, these listings have not only confirmed the development of ‘Project Maverick’ but have also provided a glimpse into the game’s nature. Described as a “yet unannounced AAA game,” it’s being developed across teams in both Europe and North America.
With 40 positions currently open for this project, it’s evident that the studio is gearing up for something big, possibly its biggest project yet. It being an RPG is curious, but what’s particularly interesting is the game’s development model.
From what we’ve already learned, ‘Project Maverick’ is being developed under the work-for-hire model, where the intellectual property rights are owned by the publisher, in this case, Microsoft. The entire financing for the game’s development will be shouldered by the publisher, making it a significant investment on their part.
Of course, Microsoft’s recent endeavors in the gaming scene have been nothing short of ambitious. Following the success of Starfield, the tech giant seems more determined than ever to expand its AAA offerings. The acquisition of Activision Blizzard and the show of faith in the Japanese developer, Tango Gameworks, are testaments to the aggressive strategy the company has adopted to outpace its rival, Sony.
As for ‘Project Maverick’, the details we want most remain shrouded in mystery. However, given People Can Fly’s history with shooters and the game’s description hinting at RPG elements, there’s a lot to be excited about. The likely use of Unreal Engine 5, suggests that gamers can expect cutting-edge graphics and gameplay mechanics that will likely force them to upgrade their rigs.
It’s obviously too early to make any definitive statements, but there’s a good chance that ‘Project Maverick’ might just be the next big thing to hit Xbox consoles and PCs. The only thing that can ruin it now is if it ends up languishing in development hell.
