AEW's Gaming Future: Exploring New Horizons

AEW, the rapidly growing professional wrestling promotion, is reportedly considering a significant shift in its video game strategy. According to a recent report, the company's decision-makers are "strongly considering" seeking a new development partner for future games, following issues with their debut title, AEW Fight Forever.

Charting a New Course: AEW's Gaming Ambitions

Rethinking the AEW Gaming Experience

The release of AEW Fight Forever, the company's first console game, has been met with a mixed reception. Developed by Yuke's and published by THQ Nordic, the game has faced criticism, and updates on another console game have been scarce. This has prompted AEW's leadership to reevaluate their approach to video game development.According to the report, the issues with Fight Forever's development were apparent, with both AEW and Yuke's butting heads. One source suggests that AEW Executive Vice President Kenny Omega was particularly frustrated, and there were concerns that Yuke's was trying to take advantage of his inexperience in game development.The report also indicates that the game was over-budget and under-delivered, with a previous report noting that there was "pressure to deliver something faster than what should've been." This has led AEW to consider exploring new partnerships for future gaming projects.

Exploring New Development Partnerships

According to the report, AEW's decision-makers are actively exploring the possibility of working with a new development partner for their future video game endeavors. The company is said to have put out feelers to various developers, gauging their interest and exploring potential collaborations.One of the key considerations for AEW is the ability to trust a new development partner and ensure a smoother, more successful game development process. The report suggests that many within AEW are eager to create another game, but it ultimately comes down to whether "the one signing the checks wants to trust them again."Interestingly, AEW owns the rights to the build for AEW Fight Forever, which means they have the flexibility to work with a new developer if they choose to go in that direction. This could potentially allow them to build upon the foundation laid with the first game and create an even more polished and engaging experience for fans.

Roster Expansion and Future Considerations

As AEW contemplates its gaming future, the report also mentions the possibility of adding recently signed stars, such as Will Ospreay, to the roster of AEW Fight Forever or any future games. This could be a strategic move to keep the game's roster fresh and appealing to fans as the company continues to grow and sign new talent.However, the report notes that no decisions have been made regarding a new development partner or even a new game altogether. AEW is currently in the process of conducting due diligence, exploring their options, and weighing the pros and cons of various paths forward.The future of AEW's video game endeavors remains uncertain, but the company's willingness to re-evaluate their approach and explore new partnerships suggests a commitment to delivering a more polished and satisfying gaming experience for their passionate fanbase.