Three years have passed since Microsoft first announced Scalebound‘s cancellation. Over the last three years, Scalebound‘s developer Platinum Games have been vocal about their desire to resume the development of the four-player Dragon Action RPG. Last year, a rumor arose that the Platinum Games title might have resumed development when the Scalebound Microsoft page was rediscovered. Earlier this month, Platinum Games announced a partnership with Chinese corporation Tencent. When the partnership was announced many in the gaming community wondered what would be next for Platinum Games beyond Bayonetta. This week, Platinum Games gave us a preview at some of their potential projects.
Earlier this week, Platinum Games announced a Kickstarter for the Wonderful 101. The Kickstarter easily surpassed its funding goals; however, it caused some controversy when the Kickstarter surpassed its $50,000 goal. With the Tencent funding, Platinum Games is determined to self-publish. One potential title that the action-adventure developer would like to work on is Scalebound. Sadly, at the moment they are currently not able to due Microsoft owning the intellectual property.
Inaba Interview
In an interview with Eurogamer, Producer Atsushi Inaba was asked what he’d like to work on and if Scalebound was on their radar. In response, Inaba had this to say,
“Again, it’s a good question! But this was an intellectual property that belongs 100% to Microsoft,” said Inaba after being asked about the possibility of resurrecting Scalebound.“Whatever happens with this project, we can’t really do anything with it unless Microsoft leaves us. But it’s a game that we fall in love with and love, if the opportunity arises, it’s something we would love to return to.”
Scalebound’s History
The concept of Scalebound was originally developed in 2006 but postponed for Bayonetta. Seven years passed and Scalebound started its development in 2013. In 2014, Microsoft would officially announce Scalebound at E3. Sadly in January of 2017, Microsoft announced that the project was canceled.
Scalebound‘s multiplayer concept and dragon-riding piqued much curiosity. Despite an unusual E3 trailer, the stunning graphics, and 4 player co-op would bring an unusual adventure to the world. Hopefully, Platinum Games will get Microsoft’s permission to develop Scalebound.
