
EA has officially canceled the highly anticipated Black Panther game developed by Cliffhanger Games and has closed the Seattle-based studio as part of recent layoffs. The announcement marks a major setback for fans eagerly awaiting this new Marvel superhero title.
Background on the Black Panther Game and Cliffhanger Games
The Black Panther video game was first announced in 2023, following speculation that began about a year earlier, after EA Motive unveiled their Iron Man project. To work exclusively on the Black Panther game, EA established Cliffhanger Games under the leadership of Kevin Stephens, former Vice President at Monolith Productions.
Unlike the upcoming Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra by Skydance, which features the World War II era Black Panther Azzuri, Cliffhanger’s game was expected to be set in the modern day Wakanda. Rumors suggested a branching narrative where players could choose their own character to assume the mantle of Black Panther, with a unique focus on authentic African martial arts integrated into gameplay.
What Led to the Cancellation and Studio Closure?
The news broke when EA Entertainment president Laura Miele informed staff via email about the cancellation. The closure of Cliffhanger Games is part of broader layoffs at EA, though the number of employees affected at Cliffhanger is reportedly less than the nearly 300 layoffs that recently hit EA’s Respawn and Fan Care teams.
While EA has not detailed the specific reasons, industry insiders speculate the decision stems from strategic shifts within EA, budget reallocations, and challenges in meeting development milestones.
With Cliffhanger Games closed, it is unclear whether EA or Marvel Games will revive the BP title with a different studio. Meanwhile, EA continues to develop other Marvel titles, including the Iron Man game from EA Motive.
For now, fans of the BP franchise will have to wait longer for a dedicated game, as the industry adapts to changing priorities and market demands.