"Hitman 2" is still in the midst of development, but according to the latest news, game publisher Square Enix has decided to part with IO Interactive. Despite the recent changes, "Hitman 2" will push through and launch next year.
"To maximize player satisfaction as well as market potential going forward, we are focusing our resources and energies on key franchises and studios. As a result, the Company has regrettably decided to withdraw from the business of IO INTERACTIVE A/S, a wholly‐owned subsidiary and a Danish corporation, as of March 31, 2017," Square Enix shares in a statement.
The Japanese corporation reportedly warned investors of a possible £33 million loss. The company informed investors of the potential massive loss, which will be the result of the sale of IO Interactive.
With the game publisher's recent announcement, it is only natural for the series' patriots to worry about its future. However, a report from a German publication called GameStar states that "Hitman 2" will be launched next year. The game, according to the report, will be owned by IO Interactive not Square Enix. In most cases, the publisher usually claims the intellectual property of the title, which also means the publisher has all the rights to prospective sequels. However, a deal that both companies made reportedly grants IO Interactive the rights to the series.
Square Enix is currently in talks with potential investors, but if the company fails to secure a deal, IO Interactive may shut down for good.
Square Enix and IO Interactive have yet to release their plans for the upcoming "Hitman" sequel. They have also remained tight-lipped amid the rumors surrounding the game. Until either the companies make official statements about "Hitman 2," gamers should treat the reports with a grain of salt.
"Hitman" is currently available for download on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One consoles, and on PCs. "Hitman 2" is slated to debut sometime in 2018.
