Deus Ex, an iconic series within the gaming community, remains largely confined to its cult following, despite its groundbreaking innovations. With a legacy stretching back several years, it deserves greater recognition and appreciation among gamers. If more individuals explored its rich narratives and engaging gameplay, the series would likely captivate a broader audience.
While there’s a desire among fans for a return of Deus Ex to rival the success of titles like *Cyberpunk 2077*, the outlook remains bleak. Indeed, the franchise faces significant challenges, and a revival does not appear imminent. Nonetheless, the most recent installment has the potential to resonate more widely if given the chance by the gaming community.
Deus Ex Mankind Divided Deserves More Love
More People Should Try Mankind Divided
Deus Ex: Mankind Divided may not attract the same level of attention as its predecessor, *Human Revolution*, but it stands out as a remarkable immersive experience deserving of more acclaim. While it retains core mechanics from its predecessor, it enhances these elements, providing a deeper and more rewarding gameplay experience.
As players control Adam Jensen, they are granted a myriad of choices and strategies for tackling challenges. The game extends beyond mere combat or stealth; it involves an intricate web of methods within each approach. The combination of stealth, action, and social tactics creates an engaging environment. Stealth interactions are enhanced through environmental awareness, hacking capabilities, and deceptive maneuvers to distract guards.
Despite receiving a warm reception from players, *Mankind Divided* did not achieve blockbuster sales, with combined sales for it and *Human Revolution* reaching 12 million copies.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Prague, the game’s intricate cyberpunk city features a blend of historic architecture and futuristic advancements. Littered with interactions and secrets, the city invites exploration, turning each area into a thrilling playground of opportunities. Players can navigate diverse pathways, uncover hidden routes, and creatively fulfill objectives beyond linear storytelling.
The narrative in *Mankind Divided* may not eclipse that of *Human Revolution*, yet it remains gripping, tackling significant issues such as social injustice and moral dilemmas. The immersion is heightened with a believable world filled with distinct factions and political intrigue that encourage deeper investigation. Furthermore, side missions are far from mere extension—each features its own plot twists, multiple resolution strategies, and unforeseen consequences. It’s a title that merits exploration for any gamer who hasn’t yet ventured into its depths.
There Are Some Pitches Reportedly Going Out
The Developer Hasn’t Given Up On The Series Yet
In the face of studio closures, Eidos-Montréal remains undeterred in its efforts to revive the Deus Ex franchise. Reports from Insider Gaming suggest that the studio is actively pursuing pitches for a new installment to potential publishers and partners, although no tangible commitments have emerged as of yet. The difficulty may stem from the series being primarily perceived as niche within the broader industry landscape.
This viewpoint unfortunately overlooks the passionate community that exists around the franchise, and illustrates the industry’s current trend towards broader-market hits and return on investment. Following the disappointing sales performance of *Mankind Divided*, the hesitation surrounding new investment in the series is expected. The financial implications of supporting a franchise perceived as less profitable can hinder publishers from taking the leap.
Despite *Mankind Divided* receiving vocal support from its players, its failure to be categorized as a smash hit casts doubts on the feasibility of future projects. Development costs continue to escalate, and each investment carries inherent risks—particularly significant when considering Eidos-Montreal is under the umbrella of Embracer Group.
Moreover, while new pitches for a Deus Ex title carefully distance themselves from the canceled project by Embracer Group in early 2024, there remains caution among potential investors influenced by prior decisions. Ultimately, it may become easier for Embracer Group to sell the IP rather than entice a company to back Eidos-Montreal’s development efforts.
The Future of Deus Ex Doesn’t Look Bright
Deus Ex Is In Limbo For Now
Once a trailblazer in the immersive simulation genre, the Deus Ex series now finds itself in a precarious position with an uncertain future. Fans have long awaited a fresh entry following *Mankind Divided*’s 2016 release, eager to continue Adam Jensen’s journey within its unique narrative, gameplay depth, and cyberpunk aesthetic.
However, the series appears trapped in a limbo. Even with exciting ideas, Eidos-Montreal is overshadowed by the larger dynamics of Embracer Group. Asking publishers to invest in a studio that faces its own set of challenges complicates matters, particularly given the franchise’s branding as “niche”. This situation highlights why a fresh addition to the Deus Ex catalog might hinge upon an external sale of the property to a more stable developer.
The industry’s current shift towards monetizable live-service models further complicates the landscape for single-player experiences like Deus Ex, where financial successes do not guarantee profitability. Notably, other franchises such as Hitman and *Cyberpunk 2077* have achieved success, illustrating that deep, story-driven games can find a receptive audience.
Yet, the perception of high-risk investment lingers among publishers, as they weigh the potential for reaching a wider demographic. With Eidos-Montréal reportedly grappling with staffing cuts and struggling to regain interest, the pressing question remains: can Deus Ex reclaim its former glory, or is it fated to be remembered as a cherished relic of gaming history?
Source: Insider Gaming