A Stinging Cancellation
Avalanche Studios, known for hits like Just Cause and Mad Max, has had its fair share of canceled projects. Among them, co-founder Christofer Sundberg's most painful loss remains AionGuard, a game that never saw the light of day. In a recent interview with PC Gamer, Sundberg reflected on his time at the studio and the unfortunate fate of this ambitious title.
The Vision for AionGuard
AionGuard was set to be an open-world fantasy game, blending elements from various genres to create a unique experience. Players would assume the role of a valiant member of the AionGuard, tasked with reclaiming a devastated world from sinister forces. Each region presented different challenges, allowing players to choose their approach—be it direct confrontation or stealthy sabotage.
Publisher Dynamics
According to Sundberg, the game was signed with a significant publisher that had numerous well-known intellectual properties. However, plans quickly unraveled when the publisher shifted its focus back to existing franchises, opting to cancel AionGuard without warning. Sundberg recounted, “They broke up with us on a text message, which I will never forgive them for.”
Unfulfilled Potential
Despite acquiring the rights to AionGuard in 2009, Avalanche struggled to find a partner willing to take a chance on the project. Sundberg mentioned that potential publishers were hesitant to engage with the already announced title, effectively sealing AionGuard’s fate. The studio had hoped to bring something fresh to the gaming world but faced numerous obstacles along the way.
A Possible Connection to Crimson Desert
Interestingly, Sundberg noted that elements of AionGuard bear a striking resemblance to Crimson Desert, a title that has garnered attention in the gaming community. “I haven’t played Crimson Desert enough, but we had everything that I’ve seen from Crimson Desert in the plans for that game,” he explained. This revelation raises questions about the similarities between the two projects and how close AionGuard was to becoming a reality.
The Legacy of AionGuard
Although only a few low-resolution screenshots remain from AionGuard, the idea behind the game continues to resonate with fans and developers alike. Its cancellation serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by studios navigating the complex relationships with publishers. As Sundberg moves forward with his new game Samson, the story of AionGuard is a poignant chapter in Avalanche Studios' history.
