Jar of Sparks, the game studio founded by former Halo Infinite design head Jerry Hook, has paused development on its debut project. The studio, operating under NetEase, is actively seeking a new publishing partner to realize its vision for a next-generation narrative-driven action game.
NetEase, a global gaming giant, currently supports live-service titles such as Once Human and the recently launched Marvel Rivals. The latter's successful launch and upcoming content, including the Fantastic Four integration, highlight NetEase's commitment to its existing projects.
Hook's LinkedIn post confirmed the development pause and the studio's search for a publisher capable of supporting their creative ambitions. While layoffs weren't explicitly mentioned, Hook indicated that team members would be exploring new opportunities, suggesting a restructuring. This mirrors the experience of other veteran developers who have partnered with NetEase, such as Hiroyuki Kobayashi, who formed GPTRACK50 Studios in 2022.
The decision comes amidst a period of transition for both Jar of Sparks and the Halo franchise. While Jar of Sparks temporarily suspends development, the Halo franchise, Hook's previous employer, is undergoing its own revitalization with 343 Industries' rebranding to Halo Studios and a shift to Unreal Engine for future titles.
The future of Jar of Sparks remains uncertain, pending the successful acquisition of a new publishing partner. The team's commitment to creating innovative and engaging experiences, however, remains evident.
[Image: Illustrative image related to the news. Source and specifics omitted for brevity.]
