Remedy Entertainment has decided to cancel their in-development multiplayer game, codenamed Kestrel, to focus their efforts on enhancing their existing IP portfolio. Kestrel, a premium cooperative multiplayer game initially initiated as a reboot of an earlier project named Vanguard, was being developed in collaboration with Chinese tech giant Tencent. The game's cancellation allows Remedy to reallocate resources to other development projects and reduce overall recruitment needs.

CEO Tero Virtala states that while Kestrel had potential, its early concept stage did not match the significant progress of other Remedy projects. By disbanding Kestrel, they can now move experienced developers to more promising ventures and provide support functions with additional focus.

Remedy, widely recognized for creating immersive single-player experiences like Alan Wake and Control, faced industry apprehension about launching a premium multiplayer game. Given the number of free multiplayer games recently shut down, skepticism around such a project's viability in the competitive market was high.

With a legacy of single-player hits, Remedy's decision aligns more closely with the tastes of their established fan base. This strategic choice prioritizes the company's strengths, though curiosity about what Kestrel could have been remains among fans and industry watchers alike.

Why has Remedy Entertainment cancelled Codename Kestrel?

Remedy Entertainment cancelled Codename Kestrel to concentrate on developing their existing IPs and to better allocate their resources towards more advanced game projects within their portfolio, which are recently generating significant progress and align with the company's expertise in creating compelling single-player experiences.

Remedy Entertainment is known for its focus on story-driven single-player games. Their most notable titles include the psychological thriller 'Alan Wake,' which received critical acclaim for its narrative, atmosphere, and innovative use of storytelling in a video game. Another major title by Remedy is 'Control,' a supernatural action-adventure game that has been praised for its unique world-building, intriguing story, and engaging gameplay systems. These games have established Remedy's reputation for creating high-quality narrative experiences in the gaming industry.