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Zynga Shuts Down Torchlight III Developer Echtra Games: A Strategic Realignment or a Sign of Troubled Waters?
Introduction
In a move that has sent ripples through the gaming industry, Zynga, a subsidiary of Take-Two Interactive, has announced the closure of Echtra Games, the studio behind the action RPG Torchlight III. This decision, impacting at least 61 employees, comes just four years after Zynga acquired Echtra Games with the aim of expanding into the PC and console gaming market. The closure raises questions about Zynga’s strategic direction and the fate of the unannounced cross-platform ARPG that Echtra Games had been working on.
The Rise and Fall of Echtra Games
Echtra Games was founded in 2016 by Max Schaefer, a veteran of Blizzard North and co-creator of the Diablo franchise, along with other industry veterans. The studio’s initial project was Torchlight Frontiers, an ambitious MMORPG. However, after receiving feedback from testers and guidance from their publisher, Echtra Games shifted gears and transformed the project into a more traditional standalone title, Torchlight III, which was released in 2020.
While Torchlight III was intended to be Echtra Games’ defining title, it received mixed reviews. Some critics praised its vibrant art style and engaging combat, while others criticized its lack of innovation and reliance on free-to-play mechanics. Despite its shortcomings, Torchlight III maintained the series’ signature loot-driven gameplay and offered players a customizable fort to call their own.
Zynga’s Acquisition and Subsequent Closure
In 2021, Zynga acquired Echtra Games, signaling its intent to establish a stronger presence in the PC and console gaming market. Zynga CEO Frank Gibeau expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating that it would allow the company to leverage Echtra Games’ expertise in RPG development and cross-platform play.
Under Zynga’s ownership, Echtra Games began working on a new cross-platform RPG in collaboration with NaturalMotion, another Zynga-owned studio. However, this project never saw the light of day. In a statement provided to IGN, Zynga attributed the closure of Echtra Games to a “strategic realignment” of its resources and priorities. The company emphasized that it would work closely with impacted employees to ensure they are treated with respect during this difficult transition.
The Aftermath: Unanswered Questions and Industry Concerns
The closure of Echtra Games raises several questions about Zynga’s long-term strategy and its commitment to PC and console gaming. The unannounced cross-platform RPG that Echtra Games had been developing held promise, and its cancellation leaves a void in Zynga’s portfolio.
Moreover, the closure comes shortly after Zynga announced the shutdown of NaturalMotion’s Star Wars: Hunters, raising concerns about the company’s ability to effectively manage and support its studios. These events may indicate a shift in Zynga’s focus back towards mobile gaming, its traditional stronghold.
The Fate of Torchlight III
With Echtra Games now closed, the future of Torchlight III remains uncertain. While the game is still available for purchase on various platforms, it is unclear whether Zynga intends to provide ongoing support and updates. Fans of the Torchlight series may be left wondering whether a fourth installment will ever materialize.
Conclusion: A Missed Opportunity or a Necessary Correction?
The closure of Echtra Games marks the end of a chapter for both the studio and Zynga. Whether this decision represents a missed opportunity or a necessary correction in Zynga’s strategic direction remains to be seen. However, the closure serves as a reminder of the challenges and uncertainties inherent in the gaming industry, where even established studios can face unexpected setbacks. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, companies must adapt and make difficult choices to remain competitive, even if it means parting ways with talented teams and promising projects.