Dead Space 4 Pitch Rejected by EA, Original Creators Reflect on the Future of the Series
For fans of the Dead Space series, the prospect of a fourth installment remains a dream deferred. Despite hopes reignited by the 2023 remake of the first game, sales were underwhelming, prompting EA to put the beloved IP back on the shelf. However, in an interview with Dan Allen Gaming, three key creators of the original series — Glen Schofield, Bret Robbins, and Christopher Stone — revealed that they pitched a Dead Space 4 concept to EA earlier this year. Unfortunately, the pitch was rejected.
Speaking candidly about the attempt, Glen Schofield shared:
"We tried, actually, you know, the three of us, for Dead Space 4. I mean, we're talking this year. We didn't go too deep; they just said we're not interested right now, we appreciate it, blah blah blah. We know who to talk to, so we didn't go and take it any further, and we respected their opinion. They know their numbers and what they have to ship and all that, so yeah."
Christopher Stone added:
"The industry is in a weird place right now, and people are really hesitant to take chances on things. So, you got to, you know, take it with a grain of salt. Who knows, maybe one day. I think we'd all love to do Dead Space 4."
While EA’s reluctance is understandable given the underperformance of the Dead Space Remake, the creators expressed that their pitch wasn’t deeply explored. They attempted to capitalize on their shared availability following less-than-ideal outcomes for their respective recent projects:
Bret Robbins directed Immortals of Aveum, a major flop that led to layoffs at his studio, Ascendant Games.
Glen Schofield and Christopher Stone helmed The Callisto Protocol at Striking Distance Studios, another ambitious project that failed to meet expectations.
Moving Forward: Where Are the Creators Now?
The trio has since moved on to new endeavors:
Bret Robbins is now Game Director at Absurd Ventures, working on an unannounced project.
Christopher Stone joined VOID Interactive, known for the tactical FPS Ready or Not, as Studio General Manager.
Glen Schofield is working on a smaller, personal project, serving as an Executive Producer, though funding is still in progress.
Schofield teased:
"It’s a pretty exciting project. It’s smaller, and I’m not directing; I’m going to be executive producing it. When you hear what it’s about, if we get the funding, you’ll understand. It’s something kind of special for me."
The Future of Dead Space 4
Though EA’s rejection dampens immediate hopes, the creators remain optimistic about revisiting Dead Space 4 in the future, should circumstances align. Until then, fans may need to settle for memories of the chilling sci-fi horror and the occasional glimmer of hope from its dedicated creators.
Do you think EA should give Dead Space 4 a shot? What would you love to see in a new installment if it ever gets greenlit? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
