Strap in for more System Shock drama
The largest video game investor in the world just saved a moribund sequel from death’s doorstep. The always-divisive Tencent has seemingly bought the rights toSystem Shock 3from OtherSide Entertainment.
In abrief messageposted to the OtherSide website, the developer said “We are happy to announce that Tencent will be taking theSystem Shockfranchise forward. As a smaller indie studio, it had been challenging for us to carry the project on our own. We believe Tencent’s deep capabilities and expertise as a leading game company will bring the franchise to new heights.”
Many will recoil at Tencent’s involvement, butSystem Shock 3wasn’t getting made without someone from the outside stepping in. In February, reports arose that nearly the entireSystem Shock 3development team had been laid offand that the project had been all but abandoned. This came after original publisher Starbreeze (who was in its own financial disarray) sold the franchise rights to OtherSide. It seems as though OtherSide was never in a position to tackle this sort of undertaking all alone.
There’s also confusion as to the extent of Tencent’s involvement. While OtherSide says “Tencent will be taking theSystem Shockfranchise forward,” Nightdive Studio CEO Stephen Kicktweeted“Nightdive owns theSystem Shockfranchise and IP, please don’t spread misinformation.” So, there seem to be conflicting statements as to who owns the property. We also don’t know if Tencent plans to stick with OtherSide asSystem Shock 3‘s developer or move it to another studio.
It’s all a bewildering mess which is exactly par for the course when it comes toSystem Shockas of late. At least it seems like development onSystem Shock 3will continue one way or another.
