As next-generation console games get bigger and better, it seems that developers have consistently run into release delays.
Scalebound, an Xbox One exclusive originally slated for release this year, is the latest game to get delayed: its developer, Platinum Games, doesn't plan on releasing the title until 2017.
The developer made the announcement on its official website recently, stating that the only way to make a title that met the high expectations of those interested in playing it was by delaying its release.
"In order to deliver on our ambitious vision and ensure that Scalebound lives up to expectations, we will be launching the game in 2017," wrote Platinum. "This will give us the time needed to bring to life all the innovative features and thrilling gameplay experiences that we have planned."
This kind of delay isn't new and seems to plague both the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, although both consoles have now been on the market for several years. It's unknown as to why these sort of delays keep happening, but increased player expectations could play a part, along with the demand for better graphics, gameplay and story with each title.
Platinum first announced Scalebound in 2014. The team behind Bayonetta introduced an action role-playing game that put players in the shoes of a character named Drew, who has a dragon named Thuban as a companion. Unlike Bayonetta, though, the game focuses more on graphics and role-playing than action. However, there is some action which allows players to use weapons to defeat enemies, as well as issue commands to Thuban. A unique aspect of gameplay is the bond between Drew and Thuban: if one dies in battle, so does the other.
In spite of the delay, though, Platinum assures players that it has made good progress in developing the game.
"Development on the game is going well and we're really happy with how it's coming together," wrote Platinum. "Scalebound is one of the biggest games Platinum Games has ever created: an epic adventure filled with exploration and fantasy gameplay, inventive multiplayer, and action-packed battles on an unbelievable scale — all set in a beautiful and evolving world. It's the game our team has always dreamed of making."
Platinum also has other games in development, including Nier: Automata for Square Enix and Star Fox Zero for Nintendo.
Scalebound is now set to release sometime in 2017 exclusively on the Xbox One.
