In recent years, Vicarious Visions has gained popularity with its take on classic remakes. Most notably, the Tony Hawk Pro Skater 1 & 2 and Crash Bandicoot remakes. However, off the heels of the success of these games, Vicarious Visions has announced via Twitter it will be merging with Blizzard Entertainment. As you would expect, fans of the Tony Hawk developer are not pleased with this news, and rightfully so.
We’ve officially merged with Blizzard Entertainment. Our development team will remain in Albany, NY, and fully dedicated to Blizzard games.
Blizzard Entertainment has become somewhat of an industry villain with its recent controversy surrounding a hostile work environment for its employees. It’s deplorable; once a beloved company that amazed us with awesome games like World of Warcraft and Diablo, is now the poster child for hostile work environments.
What About Tony Hawk Pro Skater?
After Tony Hawk Pro Skater 1 & 2, we assumed Vicarious Visions would continue with Pro Skater 3 and my favorite, Pro Skater 4. Now, I’m not saying this won’t happen, but this sudden merge leaves us asking more questions.
Earlier this year, Microsoft acquired Blizzard Entertainment, one of the biggest gaming acquisitions ever. Does this mean Tony Hawk could be an Xbox exclusive? Recently, Microsoft has acquired twenty-plus studios since 2019 to strengthen its exclusive line-up of games. Could we possibly see a new Tony Hawk game on Xbox Game Pass?
Unfortunately, not many details about this deal have surfaced. If Vicarious Visions is disbanded across multiple teams in Blizzard Entertainment, then you can say goodbye to any hopes of a new Tony Hawk game. Skateboard tricks and alternative rock soundtracks aren’t usually Blizzard’s style.
Hopefully, Vicarious Visions will keep its creative space and freedom under Microsoft’s supervision. I could see a Tony Hawk Pro Skater 3 & 4 Remake happening if it benefits Xbox. But, if there is any more news about this deal surfaces, then Sports Gamers Online will be right here to give you all the details.
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