HAAK Xbox Release Cancelled After Problems with Microsoft

HAAK, the indie action-adventure game with Metroidvania elements developed by Blingame, is cancelling its planned Xbox release. Initially released on September 16 2020, on Steam with early access, the developers promised plans for future releases on Xbox and PlayStation 5 after the full release in 2022.

We are deeply sorry that we have failed to meet the expectations of all Xbox players. HAAK will not be coming to Xbox. Thank you. https://t.co/nLfuYNmE37 pic.twitter.com/upXWIh0Ogq

— HAAK (@haakgame) August 17, 2024

However, after encountering numerous obstacles when submitting the game to Microsoft, they announced their cancellation plans in an X post. According to the developer, they have spent 14 months applying for the game’s publication and completing the Microsoft Partner identity registration despite spending only two weeks to port HAAK to Xbox.

In addition, they also reached out to ID@Xbox, but they also had numerous bugs, which made it impossible to inquire about solutions to their problems. After exhausting all other resources, they determined it was a Microsoft issue, with Xbox’s support team unable to help, leading them to forgo releasing HAAK on Xbox due to tight development funds.

Also Read: Shadows of Doubt PS5 and Xbox Launch Set on September 26

HAAK PS5 Port Coming Soon Despite Xbox Setback

Besides explaining their reasoning for cancelling HAAK’s Xbox Port, the developers also bluntly stated this incident with Microsoft was one of the worst publishing processes they experienced, as there weren’t as many issues when publishing on other platforms.

For context, before releasing a game on Xbox consoles, it must pass through a rigorous certification process managed by Microsoft. This process ensures that the game meets certain quality and performance standards, adheres to platform guidelines, and is free from critical bugs. If a game fails to meet these requirements, it may be sent back to the developers for fixes, leading to delays.

We are still preparing the PS5 version, which is proceeding relatively smoothly.👏

— HAAK (@haakgame) August 17, 2024

While it is still unsure where the depth of the problems lies for HAAK’s Xbox port, fellow indie developer Mad Fellows commented on the situation, stating that it didn’t have as many issues developing for Xbox, but the delays can make things stressful.

As for its PS5 port, Blingame has stated the certification is progressing smoothly with a simple sentence rather than the long explanation earlier, hinting at their long-bore frustration.

Everything to Know About HAAK

Story and Setting

Before its PS5 releases, let’s take a walk down memory as we unveil everything you need to know about HAAK before playing. Firstly, the story takes place in a bleak, dystopian world where civilisation has crumbled, and dangers lurk, from hostile creatures to environmental hazards.

As per the namesake, you play as Haak, a lone wanderer with an energy whip and a mysterious background. Throughout your journey through this devastated world, you gradually uncover the truth behind the collapse of civilisation while fighting for survival.

Moreover, as you venture across decayed cities, abandoned facilities and treacherous underground tunnels, you uncover fragments about your identity, past hints at the cause of the apocalypse and the nature of the world’s downfall.

Gameplay

As mentioned above, HAAK features Metroidvania elements, emphasising exploration and backtracking. For context, you will gradually unlock new abilities and tools to access previously unreachable areas. The game encourages exploration, with secrets and hidden paths scattered across your journey.

Besides its exploration, the combat is fast-paced and relies on a mix of melee attacks and unique abilities. For example, you can use the protagonist’s energy whip for combat, perform combos, dodge enemy attacks, and use your whip for traversal, like swinging across gaps or pulling down obstacles.

Furthermore, the game features a variety of environmental integrated puzzles. These puzzles often require you to use your abilities creatively, combining elements of timing, platforming, and logic to progress. It is a good balance between challenging and fair as the game doesn’t hold your hand, but it provides the tools you need to succeed.

Multiple Endings

Lastly, HAAK features multiple endings based on the player’s choices throughout the game. For example, the extent to which you explore the world and uncover secrets, your interactions with NPCs and your moral decisions will influence the ending you receive.

As a tiny spoiler, there are two endings. The Good Ending and the True Ending. These endings can impact the fate of the characters Haak encounters, the outcome of his journey, and the ultimate revelation of the world’s secrets.

Closing Notes

HAAK’s official withdrawal from an Xbox console release has saddened many console holders, even more so due to Microsoft’s apparent issue. While it is unfortunate, players can still play the game on Switch, PC and mobile devices before its eventual PS5 release.

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