In a surprising turn of events, Bungie, the renowned developers behind the acclaimed Destiny series, are branching out from their traditional gameplay formulas to create a team-based multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA). The project, previously codenamed Gummy Bears, is transitioning to a newly formed PlayStation studio, which has absorbed 40 developers from Bungie. This new collaboration hints at a significant shift in Bungie’s approach, reflecting a desire to innovate and explore fresh gaming landscapes.
The creation of this game marks a notable change from Bungie’s usual fare. With the backing of Sony and a recently established team consisting of 155 members, the studio is set on crafting an action game in a vibrant new science-fantasy universe. This shift is particularly intriguing, as it suggests that Bungie is not only interested in maintaining its legacy but also in appealing to a younger, more diverse audience.
A New Flavor of Gameplay
Described as “vibrant,” “colourful,” and “lo-fi,” the Gummy Bears project is seemingly designed with accessibility in mind. The approach to combat, notably different from traditional games, utilizes a percentage-based damage system. This means that players will experience a dynamic battle environment where attacks result in characters being knocked back—an inspiration drawn directly from Nintendo’s beloved Smash Bros. series. This unique method of character engagement promises to create a more fluid and enjoyable multiplayer experience.
Furthermore, the game is expected to include three distinct character classes—support, attack, and defence—along with various gameplay modes that encourage interaction among players. Reportedly, players will have the opportunity to socialize between matches, which aligns with contemporary gaming trends that favor community-building but may not be embraced by everyone.
Gamers’ Anticipations and Concerns
The reception of Bungie’s departure from their known franchises is mixed among gamers. While some, like Ollie, are optimistic about Bungie’s foray into new genres and extraction shooters—with comparisons made to ongoing titans like Escape from Tarkov and Hunt: Showdown—others remain skeptical. The lingering questions regarding the direction of the nu-Marathon project and its ties to Bungie’s legacy raise concerns among seasoned fans.
However, the prospect of a Bungie-created Smash Bros analogue captures the imagination. The reverence for the Gravity Hammer—a signature weapon from the Halo series—demonstrates that Bungie retains the capability to deliver unique gameplay mechanics that players adore. The potential for low-pressure cooperative play, alongside competitive modes, may combine the best aspects of both genres, offering thrill and camaraderie.
Bungie’s evolution into creating a family-friendly MOBA reflects the studio’s ambition to capture the hearts of a new generation of players. Although skepticism exists regarding their abilities to innovate in such a saturated market, there is a palpable excitement surrounding their forthcoming project. It will certainly be fascinating to see how this new chapter unfolds and whether Bungie can successfully blend its rich history with fresh ideas that resonate with both new and veteran gamers alike. As the gaming community awaits more news, anticipation builds for what promises to be an exciting and colorful venture into uncharted territory.