3) Scalebound
The scars left behind by Scalebound‘s cancellation are, in relation to other entries present here, at least, still tender to the touch, and not just because we’ve only had seven months to grieve its passing. See, PlatinumGames’ third-person action RPG, had Microsoft opted not to give it a premature burial, may well have landed on Xbox One by now, a definite plus for a console that’s still sorely lacking in first-party exclusives.
It’s unlikely we’ll ever be aware of all the contributing factors that led to the cancellation, but statements from both Platinum and Phil Spencer in the aftermath of the announcement certainly lend to a sense of genuine disappointment on both sides – an inevitable byproduct of Scalebound‘s obvious potential, no doubt. Subsequent revivals of the topic have managed to tease further explanations out of Spencer, himself suggesting that part of the decision boiled down to it not being able to meet expectations, having been announced far too early in development.
Given the relatively rough-looking gameplay that followed its unveiling, it’s tough not to agree with that sentiment, but still, was scrapping it entirely the best course of action? Platinum is, after all, one of the best at its craft, so the talent was certainly there to ensure Scalebound met the same level of quality as, say, Bayonetta.
But hey, there’s nothing to be gained from wondering what could have been. Platinum and Microsoft aren’t going out of business anytime soon, so there’s always the chance, however slim, that the latter could decide to pursue a revival. For now, however, we’ll just have to gaze upon Drew and Thuban, as well as the beautiful world of Draconis with a heavy, grief-stricken heart.