The Ambitious Vision for Twisted Metal
In a surprising turn of events, the canceled Twisted Metal game was reportedly envisioned as a battle royale experience. This information comes from the portfolio of a lead UI programmer at Firesprite—a studio affected by the 2024 layoffs—as we uncover the potential direction in which the franchise was headed. Unlike previous installments, this new game aimed to blend traditional vehicular action combat with third-person shooter mechanics, creating an innovative, last-player-standing format.
Why a Battle Royale Format?
This battle royale concept may seem fitting, especially considering the nature of the Twisted Metal series, which already shares common elements with the genre, despite predating the trend itself. It’s easy to see why Sony would consider transforming this beloved franchise into a battle royale. The developers had a unique opportunity to tap into a concept that aligns perfectly with the current gaming landscape, potentially inviting a fresh audience while catering to long-time fans.
Out-of-Vehicle Dynamics and Gameplay
One particularly intriguing aspect revealed through the programmer’s images was the out-of-vehicle action. While it remains unclear why this feature was included, it certainly adds an interesting layer to the gameplay dynamics. Imagine a Twisted Metal game where players could hop out of their vehicles to evade attacks or strategically reposition themselves, only to risk being crushed by formidable opponents. Although this feature is speculative, it reflects the creative experimentation happening behind the scenes.
With Sony’s ambitious plans to release ten live-service games by 2025, this Twisted Metal battle royale could have played a significant role in their strategy. Coupled with the success of the Twisted Metal TV series, which is gearing up for its second season, the timing seemed right for a new game to engage both fans and newcomers alike. A tragic loss for gaming enthusiasts, the questions remain: what could have been?
