When Quantic Dream unveiled Star Wars Eclipse at The Game Awards 2021, it piqued some interest from fans. However, reports indicated that the title was several years away and that the studio’s internal engine, along with struggles to hire staff following allegations of toxic workplace culture, have been stalling development.
In a new video, insider Tom Henderson highlights the current state of development and why he believes that Star Wars Eclipse may be in trouble. Originally starting out as an MMORPG code-named Project Karma, it was originally pitched to Sony (which rejected it in favor of Detroit: Become Human). Quantic Dream would use assets from the former to pitch the new Star Wars title to Lucasfilm.
Interestingly, the studio was also looking to be sold to garner more resources but the various accusations had driven away any interested parties. Henderson once again highlights the troubles caused by the developer’s engine, which is meant to handle only a few NPCs and confined levels (while Eclipse is rumored to be open world). The multiplayer side is also causing issues as well.
Perhaps the worst part is that development has been ongoing for more than 18 months but no playable version exists. As such, things could turn around, especially if the developer and Lucasarts are looking at 2024/2025 launch. But things currently don’t bode well and development could take even longer if staffing problems continue.