The recent cancellation of The Midnight Riders, a retro-futuristic adventure game by Bad Brain Game Studios, highlights the precarious nature of game development in today’s industry. Despite its promising concept, which drew inspiration from beloved 1980s nostalgia and horror, the game has been shelved as NetEase, its publisher, undergoes significant restructuring. This decision not only affects the developers but also leaves fans wondering about the potential of a game that could have captured the hearts of many.

In a surprising turn of events, Bad Brain Game Studios, a subsidiary of NetEase, has announced its impending closure due to unsuccessful efforts in securing a new partner for its ambitious project, Midnight Riders. The studio, established in 2023 with a talented team from Ubisoft Toronto, will cease operations on November 17th, 2025, marking a significant moment in the gaming industry as it reflects the challenges faced by developers in the current market.