Halo Infinite head of design’s NetEase studio “halting work” on first game as it searches for new publisher

Jar of Sparks, the Seattle-based “AAA” studio established by Halo Infinite head of design Jerry Hook again in 2022, has halted work its at present unannounced first title because it searches for a brand new publishing accomplice, and that is it is seeking to “discover all of our crew new houses” consequently.

When Jar of Sparks was initially unveiled in July 2022, it was described as a first-party developer for Chinese language writer NetEase that will give attention to creating the “subsequent era of narrative-driven motion video games”. Little has been heard from the studio since then, however Hook – who introduced his departure from 343 Industries and Microsoft again in Could 2002 – has now shared a press release on LinkedIn, suggesting Jar of Sparks’ future is unsure.

“Earlier as we speak,” Hook wrote, “we notified our crew that Jar of Sparks shall be halting work on our present title as we seek for a brand new publishing accomplice who can assist carry our artistic imaginative and prescient to life. All through this journey, our passionate, pushed, and progressive crew took daring dangers and pushed boundaries, striving to create one thing really new and thrilling for the trade. We couldn’t be prouder of the groundwork we’ve laid collectively.”

“As we put together for this subsequent step,” Hook continued, “our gifted crew members shall be exploring new alternatives… From the day we fashioned Jar of Sparks to this very second, this crew has completed exceptional feats—proving {that a} small, centered, and devoted group can obtain nice outcomes. We thank every of them for his or her braveness, talent, and friendship.”

Jar of Sparks’ announcement would not point out layoffs explicitly, however a separate publish from Hook says the studio “shall be working over the following few weeks to seek out all of our crew new houses as we shut our first challenge”, suggesting nearly all of employees shall be departing following as we speak’s information. Eurogamer has reached out to Jar of Sparks for clarification, and to NetEase relating to its present relationship with the studio.

“Thanks to everybody who supported us all through our journey right here at Jar of Sparks,” the assertion concludes. “We stay up for updating you all with our subsequent step in our journey.”

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