Guerrilla Games, 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 that was 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 this series. On the other hand, Killzone , initially released on PlayStation 2, faded into the background. Despite having a presence on the PSP and PS4, the shooter franchise did not achieve the same global success that the studio aimed for, which contributed to the change 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 brings more universal themes, which reach 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 the palette. It was, by choice, the opposite of Killzone” , explained Postma.
This new direction allowed Guerrilla to explore a more vibrant world, filled with giant robots and breathtaking scenery, moving away from the dark environment 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.
Killzone's legacy and the future of Guerrilla
Even with the declared end of Killzone , the franchise has an important place in video game history. Launched in 2004, it was one of Sony's bets on the FPS (first-person shooter) genre, competing directly with Microsoft's Halo Over the years, five titles in the series have been released, culminating in Killzone Shadow Fall , one of the PlayStation 4's debut titles, in 2013.
However, after the release of Shadow Fall , little was heard about the franchise. According to Postma, this break was not a coincidence. Thus, the decision not to resume Killzone reflects the studio's desire to explore new creative territory with Horizon . With themes such as friendship, belonging and adventure, Horizon moves away from the military and dark plots that marked Killzone .
Horizon franchise gaining more and more prominence, Guerrilla Games has consolidated its name in the market as one of Sony's main game development studios. In addition to Horizon Forbidden West , released in 2022, expectations now fall on the spin-off Lego Horizon Adventures .
