Outriders 2 Officially Canceled as People Can Fly Ends Project Gemini Amid Publisher Disputes
Outriders 2, the anticipated sequel to the 2021 looter-shooter Outriders, has officially been canceled by developer People Can Fly, marking a significant setback for the franchise. According to a detailed report from Insider Gaming, corroborated by TheThumbWars, the game—previously known internally as Project Gemini—was among two projects shelved by the studio this year.
Project Gemini: Canceled Before Full Production
While Outriders 2 was never publicly announced, internal development had been underway, with early-stage production including motion capture sessions held earlier this year. However, leaked screenshots and gameplay footage reportedly show that the game was still in a very early and incomplete stage.
The cancellation was confirmed in June by People Can Fly CEO Sebastian Wojciechowski, who cited unresolved legal and contractual issues as the primary reason. Specifically, publisher Square Enix had failed to deliver a draft content rider—a crucial document defining the project’s future milestones and conditions under the existing publishing agreement. The prolonged lack of communication from Square Enix regarding their intent to continue or end the collaboration led to the project being formally halted.
Publisher Silence and Strategic Uncertainty
The lack of clear direction from Square Enix ultimately made continued development untenable for People Can Fly. Without a finalized content rider or assurance of continued financial support, the studio had no legal or strategic basis to move forward with Outriders 2.
This scenario underscores a recurring challenge in developer-publisher relationships, especially for independent studios working under larger corporate entities. With no public comment from Square Enix at the time of writing, the long-term status of the Outriders IP remains uncertain.
People Can Fly's Future Projects
Despite the setbacks of canceling both Project Gemini and another internal title codenamed Project Bifrost, People Can Fly remains actively engaged in several high-profile projects. Notably:
The studio is developing Gears of War: E-Day in collaboration with Microsoft, one of the most anticipated revivals in the shooter genre.
It is also working on a new, unannounced title based on a Sony Interactive Entertainment IP, further signaling strong partnerships with major platform holders despite recent turbulence.
While Outriders 2 won’t see the light of day, People Can Fly’s development slate suggests the studio remains a key player in the action and shooter game space.
Were you hoping for an Outriders sequel, or are you more excited for People Can Fly’s new collaborations with Microsoft and Sony? Share your thoughts below.
