Leaked Firesprite images reveal canceled Unreal Engine 5 post-apocalyptic live service game and sci-fi battle royale concepts.
Firesprite, one of Sony’s internal studios, has been in the spotlight this year, but not always for the right reasons. Earlier reports suggested the studio had been grappling with internal issues, including claims of a toxic work culture, mismanagement, and multiple high-profile staff departures.
On top of that, one of the studio’s ambitious projects, the live service Twisted Metal game, was reportedly canceled earlier this year as a result of layoffs in Sony‘s gaming division. This latest development adds more to the ongoing story.
Newly surfaced images have revealed concept art and designs from two previously unannounced projects in development at Firesprite. The first was a gritty post-apocalyptic live service game built in Unreal Engine 5, while the second was a stylized sci-fi battle royale title.
PlayStation Firesprite’s Twisted Metal Concepts Leaked?
The Game Post came across a collection of concept art and 3D renders that offer a look into Firesprite’s shelved project. The images were originally shared online by a former lead artist at the company, showcasing intricate weapon and prop designs that were crafted for this game.
The first set of images comes from a post-apocalyptic game described as a live service title. According to the post accompanying the artwork, the project was being developed using Unreal Engine 5 and seemed to be pushing for high visual fidelity. Unfortunately, this ambitious title never made it past development and was ultimately canceled.
“As you can see, these weapons are designed to look worn and post-apocalyptic, adding to the immersive atmosphere of the gaming environment,” the post reads. “The Game was being developed using Unreal 5.”
Interestingly, this project’s cancellation draws parallels to the rumored Twisted Metal game that was in development at Firesprite before getting shelved earlier this year. Both were set in post-apocalyptic worlds, featured live-service elements, and ended up being canceled.
The former artist’s resume also sheds light on these projects, stating, “I took on the role of Lead Vehicle, Weapon, and Props Artist for another service/free-to-play project, but unfortunately, Sony canceled this title.”
Here’s the list of items the concept features:
- Hellfire Missile
- Uzi 9mm Sub Machine Gun
- Colt 1911 A1 Pistol
- Browning M2 50cal Machine Gun
- Welding Gun
Check out the shared concepts of the weapon for this canceled live service game below.
The second project, in contrast, leaned into a vibrant sci-fi aesthetic. It was a free-to-play battle royale game featuring sleek, stylized weaponry and props. The post explained that the project underwent “several stylistic changes” as it was transferred to another developer when the intellectual property (IP) was sold. Development on this title lasted 18 months before the handover.
“Presenting a collection of stylized concepts for weapons and props designed for a Sci-Fi Battle Royale free-to-play game. The project was eventually later handed over to another developer which underwent several stylistic changes.”
“After 18 months, the project was transferred to another team as the IP was sold,” the artist’s resume reads.
Check out the shared concepts of the weapon for this sci-fi battle royale game below.
While these canceled projects offer an interesting look into what Firesprite had in the works, recent rumors suggest that Firesprite is currently developing a horror game based on an established IP: Project Heartbreak.
In related news, Sony canceled its AAA live-service hero shooter Concord earlier this year after the game failed to capture fans’ interest, which eventually led to Sony closing down the developer, Firewalk Studios.
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