Alleged in-development footage of Xbox's cancelled Perfect Dark reboot has surfaced online, offering a glimpse into the game that The Initiative was working on before its cancellation. Microsoft axed the project last July as part of a broader wave of layoffs. The newly emerged footage, reportedly discovered via a VFX artist's portfolio and published by MP1ST, spans approximately two minutes and appears to demonstrate various mechanics.
The clips feature tests of shooting and explosion effects against different environmental elements, including fruit props. Some of these tests occur in what seem to be unfinished areas, while other segments showcase more developed environments. The footage reportedly begins with a view of a large, energy-radiating server or generator room. Midway through, a chase sequence unfolds on foot through a collapsing factory. This chase may have been part of a mission referred to as 'Most Wanted,' featuring protagonist Joanna Dark pursuing a character named Carrington.
Last year, a Bloomberg report indicated that a potential deal to revive the Perfect Dark reboot had fallen through. This proposed deal would have involved Rockstar Games' parent company, Take-Two, stepping in to provide funding and publishing duties. Negotiations reportedly stalled due to disagreements over the long-term ownership of the Perfect Dark franchise. Following the cancellation, Crystal Dynamics, which was collaborating on the reboot, also experienced layoffs.
Since the initial cancellation, Microsoft has conducted further layoffs. Previous cuts affected studios like Double Fine, Undead Labs, Compulsion Games, and Arkane. Some of these studios have transitioned to an independent status, while others are navigating ongoing negotiations regarding their future. Ninja Theory, the developer behind the Senua games, appears to be undergoing a planned closure after acquisition talks failed to materialize.