AEW's Crossroads: Navigating the Future of Wrestling Video Games

The world of professional wrestling video games has been a tumultuous one, with developers and publishers constantly striving to deliver the ultimate gaming experience for fans. In a recent development, All Elite Wrestling (AEW) is reportedly "strongly considering" working with a new development partner for their future video game projects, according to Insider Gaming. This decision comes on the heels of the mixed reception to their latest release, AEW: Fight Forever, which was developed by Yuke's, the Osaka-based company that previously worked with WWE Games from 2000 to 2018.

Charting a New Course: AEW's Pursuit of Perfection

Lessons Learned from AEW: Fight Forever

The release of AEW: Fight Forever was a highly anticipated event for wrestling enthusiasts, but the game's reception has been a mixed bag. According to sources, AEW is well aware that the game "didn't go the way they expected," with the project being "over-budget" and "under-delivering" upon its launch. This realization has prompted the company to seriously consider exploring new development partnerships for their future video game endeavors.

The challenges faced with AEW: Fight Forever have not gone unnoticed, and the company is now taking a proactive approach to ensure their next game is a resounding success. By acknowledging the shortcomings of their previous release, AEW is demonstrating a commitment to learning from their experiences and striving for a better outcome in the future.

Exploring New Horizons: AEW's Search for the Perfect Partner

In the wake of the AEW: Fight Forever release, the company has reportedly been reaching out to "some of the larger developers in the space, including some obvious ones," to gauge their interest in the wrestling video game market. This move suggests that AEW is actively seeking a development partner that can bring a fresh perspective and the necessary expertise to deliver a truly exceptional gaming experience for their fans.

The decision to explore new partnerships is a strategic one, as AEW recognizes the importance of aligning with a developer that can not only meet their technical and creative requirements but also share their vision for the future of wrestling video games. By conducting "due diligence" and keeping an open mind, AEW is positioning itself to make an informed decision that will ultimately benefit their loyal fanbase.

Preserving the Foundation: AEW's Ownership of the Fight Forever Engine

One of the key advantages that AEW holds is their ownership of the Fight Forever engine, which they developed in collaboration with Yuke's. This proprietary technology gives the company the flexibility to potentially bring it with them to a new development partner, should they decide to part ways with Yuke's.

The ability to leverage the existing engine could provide a solid foundation for future games, potentially allowing for a smoother transition and a more efficient development process. This strategic asset gives AEW a unique bargaining chip as they navigate the landscape of potential development partnerships, potentially opening up new opportunities and avenues for innovation.

Weighing the Options: AEW's Consideration of Yuke's Relationship

While AEW is actively exploring new development partnerships, the company is also not entirely dismissing the possibility of continuing their collaboration with Yuke's. According to reports, "everything is on the table," and there were "some positives with the Yuke's relationship" that the company is taking into account.

The notion that "another game could make things better rather than giving up after one attempt" suggests that AEW is open to the idea of refining their partnership with Yuke's, potentially addressing the issues that arose during the development of AEW: Fight Forever. This balanced approach demonstrates AEW's willingness to consider all options and make a decision that aligns with their long-term vision for the company's video game offerings.

Navigating Tensions and Pressures: The Challenges of Game Development

The development of AEW: Fight Forever was not without its challenges, as evidenced by reports of tensions between AEW Vice President Kenny Omega and Yuke's. Additionally, Insider Gaming reported that Yuke's felt "under pressure to deliver something faster than what it should've been," which may have contributed to the game's perceived shortcomings.

These behind-the-scenes dynamics highlight the complexities inherent in the video game development process, particularly in the high-stakes world of professional wrestling. As AEW navigates their future partnerships, they will need to carefully consider the balance between creative vision, technical expertise, and the realities of development timelines and budgets to ensure a successful outcome.

Embracing the Future: AEW's Commitment to Delivering the Ultimate Wrestling Experience

Ultimately, AEW's decision to explore new development partnerships for their video game projects is a testament to their unwavering commitment to delivering the ultimate wrestling experience for their fans. By acknowledging the shortcomings of AEW: Fight Forever and actively seeking out new opportunities, the company is demonstrating a willingness to adapt and evolve in order to meet the ever-changing demands of the gaming landscape.

As AEW continues to chart their course, their fans can rest assured that the company is dedicated to finding the right development partner and the necessary resources to create a truly exceptional wrestling video game that will captivate and enthrall audiences for years to come. With a focus on innovation, quality, and a deep understanding of their fanbase, AEW is poised to redefine the future of wrestling video games.