Mass Effect Director Shuts Down His New Studio Due to Lack of Funding

In a disappointing turn of events, Humanoid Origin, formerly known as Humanoid Studios, has officially shut down due to a lack of funding. Founded by Casey Hudson, the former director of the iconic Mass Effect trilogy, the Canadian game developer announced the closure today via a post on their LinkedIn page.

Unexpected Funding Shortfall: The studio faced an unforeseen shortfall in funding, which ultimately made it impossible to sustain operations.

Commitment to Team: Hudson expressed deep concern for the team, emphasizing their commitment to supporting staff during this transition to new employment opportunities.

Achievements and Culture: Despite the closure, the team made significant progress and fostered a culture of creativity and fun, which Hudson acknowledged in his message.

Game Development Background: The studio was working on a multiplatform AAA sci-fi game, leveraging Hudson's extensive experience in the genre, including his role as Game Director for Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic.

Future Projects: While Humanoid Origin's project has been canceled, another AAA sci-fi game titled Exodus is in development at Archetype Entertainment, founded by former BioWare developers James Ohlen and Drew Karpyshyn. This game promises to deliver a unique experience with time dilation mechanics that will significantly impact player choices.

Hudson's heartfelt message reflects the challenges faced by many studios in the current gaming landscape, where funding can be precarious. As the industry continues to evolve, the fate of Humanoid Origin serves as a reminder of the hurdles that developers must navigate.

What are your thoughts on the challenges facing indie studios in the gaming industry? Share your views in the comments below!