Guerrilla Games, the developer of the Killzone , has confirmed that it has no plans to continue the series. The studio, now dedicated to the Horizon , made this statement in a recent interview with The Washington Post , through its art director, Roy Postma. According to Postma, the decision was motivated by the need for a new creative direction, lighter and more accessible, compared to the dark and violent tone of Killzone .
Since the release of Horizon Zero Dawn in 2017, the studio has focused on developing new titles and expansions for the series. In contrast, Killzone , initially released on PlayStation 2, has taken a backseat. Despite its presence on PSP and PS4, the first-person shooter franchise did not achieve the same global success the studio had hoped for, contributing to the shift in focus.
Horizon replaces Killzone as Guerrilla's main franchise
Guerrilla Games' transition to the Horizon reflects a strategic choice by the developer. According to Postma, the series features more universal themes, reaching a wider audience of different age groups. The contrast with Killzone , aimed at first-person shooter players, is notable. "As a studio, we needed to renew our palette. It was, by choice, the opposite of Killzone ," explained Postma.
This new direction allowed Guerrilla to explore a more vibrant world, full of giant robots and breathtaking scenery, moving away from the dark atmosphere of Killzone . The developer has invested heavily in the growth of the Horizon , which, in addition to having a sequel, Horizon Forbidden West , has already announced a LEGO-themed spin-off aimed at an even more diverse audience.
The legacy of Killzone and the future of Guerrilla
Even with the declared end of Killzone , the franchise holds an important place in video game history. Launched in 2004, it was one of Sony's bets in the FPS (first-person shooter) genre, competing directly with Halo . Over the years, five titles in the series were released, culminating in Killzone Shadow Fall , one of the PlayStation 4's launch titles in 2013.
However, after the release of Shadow Fall , little was heard about the franchise. According to Postma, this hiatus was no accident. Thus, the decision not to resume Killzone reflects the studio's desire to explore new creative territories with Horizon . With themes such as friendship, belonging, and adventure, Horizon distances itself from the military and dark plots that marked Killzone .
Horizon franchise gaining increasing prominence, Guerrilla Games has solidified its name in the market as one of Sony's leading game development studios. In addition to Horizon Forbidden West , released in 2022, expectations now rest on the spin-off Lego Horizon Adventures .
