Sony’s plans for a Twisted Metal reboot took an unexpected turn. A new report suggests the canceled game was a third-person Battle Royale-style shooter—a significant departure from the series’ traditional vehicular combat. The project, developed by UK-based PlayStation studio Firesprite, was scrapped in 2024 as part of Sony’s widespread layoffs.
A Twisted Metal Battle Royale?
The last Twisted Metal game launched in 2012 as a PS3 exclusive, leaving fans eager for a revival. While Sony never officially announced a reboot, new details from a former Firesprite developer’s online portfolio shed light on what could have been.
The game, known internally as “Project Copper,” was described as a third-person vehicular action combat game based on a classic PlayStation franchise. Unlike past entries, it blended shooting mechanics with car-based battles, with a core objective of being the last one standing—a clear nod to the Battle Royale genre.
Leaked Screenshots and Gameplay Details
According to MP1st, the developer’s portfolio included four blurred screenshots showcasing elements of the game’s UI and gameplay. While the images remain unclear, they appear to confirm a mix of vehicular combat and third-person shooting mechanics.
The decision to turn Twisted Metal into a live service Battle Royale might have divided fans. However, Sony’s abrupt cancellation means players will never get to see how the game would have played out.
Why Was the Game Canceled?
The reboot met its end in early 2024 when Sony laid off 900 employees and shut down a London-based studio. The cuts affected about 8% of PlayStation’s workforce, hitting multiple studios, including Firesprite. As a result, Project Copper was scrapped before it could be officially revealed.
Sony’s live service strategy also seems to be shifting. Alongside Twisted Metal’s cancellation, the company axed two more unannounced live service games—one at Bend Studio and another at Bluepoint Games.
What’s Next for Twisted Metal?
While this reboot is dead, Twisted Metal isn’t completely gone. The franchise saw a resurgence with last year’s Peacock TV series, starring Anthony Mackie. The show’s success could still inspire Sony to bring the series back—perhaps in a more traditional format.
Would you have played a Twisted Metal Battle Royale? Or should Sony stick to the franchise’s classic formula? Let us know your thoughts!
