Bungie, the renowned studio behind the iconic Destiny franchise, is reportedly venturing into a new gaming territory with a project surprisingly reminiscent of Nintendo’s beloved Smash Bros. Previously known under the playful codename “Gummy Bears,” this team-based multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) aimed to capture the hearts of a younger audience with its vibrant, colorful, and lo-fi aesthetic. However, recent updates indicate that this intriguing prospect has now been handed over to a freshly established PlayStation studio, which boasts a team of 40 former Bungie developers committed to the project.
This strategic shift follows a significant restructuring within Bungie since its acquisition by Sony, and it heralds a new chapter not only for the studio but also for the broader gaming landscape. The new PlayStation studio, reportedly composed of 155 members, is tasked with creating an action title within an entirely new science-fantasy universe, merging innovation with the established charm of the Bungie brand.
The design philosophy behind the Gummy Bears project prioritizes engaging, yet uncomplicated gameplay mechanics intended to resonate with younger players. One of its key features is a unique percentage-based damage system, enabling players to knock opponents back progressively instead of relying on traditional health bars. This characteristic aligns closely with the exhilarating mechanics found in Smash Bros, promising a fun and strategic experience that emphasizes movement and spatial awareness.
Further enhancing its accessibility, the game is structured around three distinct classes: support, attack, and defense. This diversification means that players can choose their roles based on personal playstyles, fostering an engaging environment where teamwork is essential. Additionally, the game is expected to feature various modes, which raises the exciting possibility of a community hub where players can socialize and unwind between matches—a concept that may not appeal to every gamer, but brings a sense of camaraderie to the experience.
While Gummy Bears could attract many fans with its lighthearted and colorful aesthetic, it is vital to consider Bungie’s diverse portfolio of ongoing projects. The studio is simultaneously working on a reboot of the classic Marathon series, now reimagined as a player-versus-player extraction shooter. The reception of this new direction has been mixed, with some gamers expressing skepticism about its evolution from the legacy of the original game. Yet, others remain optimistic about Bungie’s potential to redefine the genre and establish itself as a frontrunner in extraction shooters.
As the industry eagerly anticipates the release of both Gummy Bears and the new Marathon, it remains to be seen how these ambitious titles will perform in a rapidly evolving gaming landscape. Bungie’s history of innovation offers a glimmer of hope for fans who crave both nostalgic experiences and new gameplay paradigms. Ultimately, this artistic blend of whimsy and competitive spirit could yield an intriguing addition to the gaming universe, drawing in both veterans and newcomers alike.