Deus Ex Series on Hiatus, Says Square Enix

There was a five-year gap between the release of Deus Ex: Human Revolution and its sequel last year, Mankind Divided. Now it seems we may have to wait even longer for another game in the franchise – or give up waiting at all.

According to Square Enix, the series has been put “on hold” thanks to a number of factors. Firstly, is the recently announced “Avengers Project” being co-developed by Deus Ex developer Eidos Montreal and Tomb Raider devs Crystal Dynamics. This, combined with underwhelming sales of Mankind Divided, means Square Enix’s ‘Deus Ex Universe’ won’t be expanding much more.

Reports state that work is already underway by Crystal Dynamics on the first title in the Avengers series while Eidos Montreal works on – the rumoured – Shadow of the Tomb Raider. Eurogamer also has reported that early work is already underway by Eidos on the second Avengers title – based off Guardians of the Galaxy.

All in all, it means Deus Ex: Mankind Divided joins the ranks of many AAA games from last year with lower-than-expected sales. It is, however, the first we’ve seen facing the consequences of those sales. Perhaps most ironic, was that, while Mankind Divided received generally good reception, its largest criticism came in the form of a lack of closure and completion.

That wrap-up would supposedly have came in a third Deus Ex game – Square Enix’s planned trilogy – now lost to time, poor sales – and the assurance that anything ‘Marvel’ will sell much better.

When asked for comment by Eurogamer, Square Enix responded, “While we are still working on expanding the Deus Ex Universe, along with creating new content and updates for Deus Ex: Mankind Divided, we’re also devoting our talents towards working with Crystal Dynamics and Marvel on The Avengers project.”

So, not cancelled, but not coming any time soon – expect at least a second title in The Avengers Project before anymore Adam Jensen. He never asked for this.