AEW is considering making a change for its future video games, according to a new report.
AEW’s first console video game, AEW Fight Forever, was developed by Yuke’s and published by THQ Nordic. The game was released in June 2023, and it has faced some criticism, and updates on another console game have been few and far between.
Mike Straw of Insider Gaming reports that AEW’s decision-makers are “strongly considering” looking for a new development partner for future games following issues with Fight Forever.
One source noted that things did not go the way AEW expected with the game. It was said to be over-budget, as it under-delivered. A previous report by Insider Gaming noted that there was “pressure to deliver something faster than what should’ve been.”
Per Straw, there have been talks of adding recently signed stars like Will Ospreay to the fame’s roster. That being said, there’s no word on where the discussions with Yuke’s stand. Straw cites one source who notes that the main focus is on the future of the company’s gaming as a whole, and everything was on the table. It was noted that some felt that, given the foundation in place, another game could make things better, but there were concerns with Fight Forever.
More Details
Per Straw, issues with AEW Fight Forever’s development were apparent. Both sides butted heads. One source says that AEW Executive Vice President Kenny Omega was especially frustrated. Some felt that Yuke’s was trying to take advantage of his inexperience with game development.
The report cites one source who said that nobody was really happy when the game came out. Talks about the future with Yuke’s or another developer started even before launch. One source said that many in AEW want to make another game. However, it comes down to whether “the one signing the checks wants to trust them again.
Straw writes that AEW owns the rights to the build for Fight Forever. They can work with a new developer if they wanted to go in that direction. The report specifies that no decisions have been made about a new partner or even a new game. Straw writes that AEW put some feelers out to developers to gauge interest. At this point, they are doing their due diligence, per a source.
WrestleZone will provide more information as it becomes available.
