“I haven’t had much time to process this, but everyone at The Outsiders and Funcom Stockholm has been affected by Funcom’s layoffs, and our ten‑year studio will be closing,” Goldfarb wrote.
“Many of us survived a near‑death experience years ago when Darkborn was cancelled. Because of this team’s loyalty and refusal to give up, Metal: Hellsinger was born. That project will always be a highlight for me, and I’m deeply grateful we had the chance to create it alongside such a talented team and strong partners.”
Darkborn was an intended first‑person stealth action game about a young humanoid monster striking back at the humans who destroyed its tribe. Originally revealed as Project Wight and reintroduced in 2019 after prolonged development, the project was cancelled in 2020. At the time, The Outsiders said they might revisit the idea in the future.
Metal: Hellsinger is the title that brought the studio widespread recognition. Released in 2022 to thousands of overwhelmingly positive reviews on Steam and strong critical praise across platforms, the rhythm‑driven shooter — which rewards firing on the beat — felt like a heavy‑metal infusion into modern arena shooters. It was inventive, tightly crafted, and striking in both visuals and sound.
“We had hoped to accomplish even more this time,” The Outsiders’ statement continued. “Things don’t always turn out as you plan.”
“We’re not giving up. We’ll try to carry on in a new form. If you can help in any way — with business leads, hiring opportunities, advice, or placements for employees — I’d be genuinely grateful if you reached out. Change is hard and we’re all hurting right now. Thank you.”
Source: gamesradar.com
