In a surprising turn of events, Eidos Montreal, a subsidiary of Embracer, has reportedly cancelled an unannounced Deus Ex game after two years of development. The cancellation has resulted in several employees being laid off, marking a period of uncertainty for the studio.

According to Bloomberg, the Deus Ex project was in its early stages and had not been officially announced. Sources indicate that the decision to cancel the game has led to a significant number of layoffs at Eidos Montreal.

However, amidst the unfortunate news, Eidos Montreal plans to shift its focus towards the creation of an original franchise. This strategic decision suggests the studio's commitment to exploring new creative possibilities and diversifying their portfolio.

Furthermore, Eidos Montreal has confirmed their plans to lay off nearly 100 employees. The layoffs come as part of Embracer's restructuring program, which aims to streamline operations and address the challenges currently plaguing the games industry.

It's worth noting that Eidos Montreal is no stranger to the critically acclaimed Deus Ex series. They have previously released hit titles such as Deus Ex: Human Revolution (2011) and Mankind Divided (2016), showcasing their prowess in the first-person action role-playing genre. However, the cancellation of the unannounced Deus Ex game marks a departure from their established franchise.

Embracer, the parent company of Eidos Montreal, has also been grappling with the uncertainties in the gaming industry. In June of last year, they announced a restructuring program that involved studio closures, layoffs, and the cancellation of certain projects. Notable closures include Volition, Campfire Cabal, and Free Radical Design, while reputed studios like Gearbox have been put up for sale.

Despite these setbacks, there is a glimmer of hope for fans of the Deus Ex series. Reports suggest that Eidos Montreal is already in the early stages of development for a new Deus Ex game. Although details are scarce at this time, this news might provide some solace for those eagerly anticipating the next installment in the beloved franchise.

In addition to the Deus Ex series, Eidos Montreal is also reportedly involved in the creation of a new intellectual property and co-developing Xbox games, including the highly anticipated Fable.

Embracer's recent financial quarter ending in September 2023 saw over 900 layoffs across several studios, including Crystal Dynamics, Beamdog, Zen Studios, and Fishlabs. These cuts highlight the challenges faced by the industry as companies work towards finding a balance in an ever-evolving market.

As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, Eidos Montreal's decision to cancel the unannounced Deus Ex game and shift their focus towards new projects reflects the studio's determination to adapt and thrive in the face of uncertainty. Fans will have to wait and see what the future holds for this renowned development team and their beloved franchises.