Future AEW Video Game Could Be Making a Major Change

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Future AEW Video Game Could Be Making a Major Change

Key Takeaways

  • AEW is considering a new game developer for its next video game.
  • AEW Fight Forever faced budget issues, delays, and mixed reviews.
  • It is uncertain if Yuke’s will provide more DLC for AEW Fight Forever as AEW explores new options in gaming.

As a long-time gamer with years of wrestling game experience under my belt, I can’t help but feel a tinge of nostalgia mixed with anticipation as All-Elite Wrestling (AEW) contemplates switching developers for its next video game. The rollercoaster ride that was AEW Fight Forever last year, with its promise of a return to the arcade-style action of yesteryears, left me both exhilarated and disappointed in equal measure.

It’s possible that All Elite Wrestling (AEW) might opt for a new game developer for its upcoming video game, given the relatively tepid response to last year’s release, AEW Fight Forever. To challenge the popular WWE 2K series, AEW enlisted Yukes, renowned for creating classic wrestling games such as WWF No Mercy, to revamp the gameplay style reminiscent of older arcade-style wrestling simulations. The outcome was AEW Fight Forever, which hit shelves in June 2023.

Nonetheless, the release of AEW Fight Forever didn’t quite live up to the high expectations of its creators, receiving mixed reviews at launch and sparking a divided response that has persisted with subsequent updates introducing new playable wrestlers and game modes. Although some players appreciate the retro-style gameplay, the game’s lack of polish and minimal presentation, including the absence of in-match commentary, have left many wrestling enthusiasts yearning for more refined features. Earlier this year, AEW owner Tony Khan announced that AEW Fight Forever would continue to receive updates, but recent insider reports suggest a possible change in direction.

According to reports from Insider Gaming, high-ranking officials at All-Elite Wrestling are contemplating switching developers for their upcoming mainline console game due to troubles experienced during the development of AEW Fight Forever. One source stated that Fight Forever went over budget and didn’t meet expectations upon release. These issues pile onto the problems and delays that were previously reported in relation to AEW Fight Forever, with Insider Gaming also mentioning that there was a push for Yuke’s to launch the game earlier than ideal.

The Next AEW Game Might Have a New Developer

The initial agreement between AEW and Yukes for the game AEW Fight Forever included a minimum of one year’s worth of updates, which appears to have been completed with the recent addition of prominent AEW wrestlers like Jay White, Samoa Joe, and Adam Copeland (previously known as Edge). However, some popular AEW personalities such as Will Ospreay and Mercedes Mone (formerly Sasha Banks) are yet to be included in the game’s roster. It is unclear at this point if Yukes has any plans for more DLC packages.

If All-Elite Wrestling (AEW) decides to hire another developer for a future licensed video game, it’s possible that AEW Fight Forever might not receive any more updates in the future. While WWE has managed to establish itself in the gaming world with hits like WWE 2K24, AEW could be looking at reworking its virtual wrestling plans based on the mixed response received from their initial attempt.

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2024-10-02 00:24