In a surprising turn of events, the promising retro-futuristic adventure game, The Midnight Riders, has been canceled by NetEase, leading to the shutdown of Bad Brain Game Studios. This decision is particularly disheartening given the game’s intriguing premise, which blends elements reminiscent of Stranger Things and classic 80s nostalgia. The studio’s head, Sean Crooks, shared a sizzle reel in hopes of attracting potential investors, showcasing a world filled with mystery and adventure that many gamers were eager to explore.

In a significant turn of events, Bad Brain Game Studios, a subsidiary of NetEase, has announced its impending shutdown due to unsuccessful efforts in securing a new partner for its project, Midnight Riders. This closure, set for November 17th, 2025, serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by game developers in todays competitive landscape. The studio, established in 2023 with talent from Ubisoft Toronto, now finds itself at a crossroads, highlighting the precarious nature of partnerships in the gaming industry.

In a surprising turn of events, NetEases previously shuttered studio, T-Minus Zero Entertainment, is making a comeback as an independent production company. A dedicated group of former staff members has acquired the T-Minus name, aiming to carry forward the studio’s creative spirit while adopting a new development model inspired by the independent film industry. This shift reflects a growing trend in the gaming industry where former employees of larger studios are venturing out to create more agile and innovative projects.