Avalanche Studios, the developer behind the iconic Just Cause series, appears to be working on an unannounced open-world title. The Just Cause franchise, which debuted in 2006, spans four entries and follows secret agent Rico Rodriguez as he takes out corrupt regimes across fictional islands using an arsenal of vehicles, tools, and parachutes. It's a series that has gained a massive fan base thanks to its chaotic open-world gameplay, shipping over 26 million copies.
However, Avalanche Studios has not released a new installment since Just Cause 4 in 2018. The game did not live up to expectations and faced criticism from fans. Although publisher Square Enix suggested that Just Cause 5 was in development, the project hasn't seen an update since then. Aside from releasing Rage 2 in 2019, Avalanche Studios has also remained largely quiet, which has left fans questioning its direction. Now, it seems the developer may be finally preparing for its next major game.
Big Xbox Console Exclusive Game Development 'On Hold'
Uncertain times at Xbox continue as another console exclusive faces a setback, following mass layoffs and multiple project cancellations in July.
Just Cause Developer is Working on a New Project
Avalanche Studios has posted a new job opening for a Senior Technical Designer. The listing reveals that the hired developer will work on an "unnamed AAA project" as a technical design generalist. Responsibilities for the role include supporting the gameplay team, coordinating across multiple disciplines, advancing features where gaps exist, and ensuring the overall quality of gameplay systems. What's interesting to note here is that the role also involves "scripting events, experiences, and systems in open worlds", which is a clear sign that the studio is developing an open-world game.
As of now, there are no concrete details about the project's theme or release timeline. However, it is unlikely to be a Just Cause game that many fans have been anticipating. According to a report by PC Gamer, studio founder Christofer Sundberg stated that Just Cause 5 is a "no-go" as much of the original development team behind the series has since departed. This points towards the possibility that Avalanche Studios is working on a completely new project, which could either be a fresh IP or another RAGE game, given the past interest in a third installment.
Whatever the project turns out to be, it needs to be a massive success for the studio, as it's been facing a challenging period recently. The developer had been collaborating with Xbox Game Studios Publishing on Contraband, which was supposed to be an open-world game focusing on heists and smuggling. Unfortunately, development on Contraband was halted in 2025 following earlier layoffs. At the time, it was stated that future updates would clarify whether the game would hit the shelves.
The situation became more uncertain when Avalanche Studios announced the closure of its Liverpool studio in the UK, alongside plans for further workforce reductions. These restructuring measures were aimed at securing long-term stability and growth. As a result, the studio's next project will play a big role in restoring its position in the gaming industry. Fans remain eager for the studio to lift the curtain on its current work soon.
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 68/100 Critics Rec: 30%
- Released
- December 4, 2018
- ESRB
- M For Mature 17+ due to Blood, Intense Violence, Strong Language
- Developer(s)
- Avalanche Studios
- Publisher(s)
- Square Enix
WHERE TO PLAY
Just Cause 4 Reloaded delivers an expansive and explosive gameplay experience in an all-new package! Just Cause 4 Reloaded includes additional premium content as well as all previously released improvements and additions to the game.
Jump into an action-packed open-world sandbox experience and cause chaos with a wide selection of weaponry, vehicles and gear. Strap into your wingsuit, equip your fully customizable grappling hook, and get ready to bring the thunder!
- Franchise
- Just Cause
- Genre(s)
- Action, Adventure, Open-World
- Platform(s)
- PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
- OpenCritic Rating
- Fair
- How Long To Beat
- 25 Hours
Source: CheatHappens