In case you’ve been keeping up with the latest Xbox news, you’ve likely heard of Avalanche Studios’ project, Contraband, or more importantly, its unfortunate fate with the cancellation of the title just a few months ago, alongside several other games in development for the console that ultimately were axed.
First announced in 2021, the game was described as a “co-op smuggler’s paradise” set in the 1970s. While the concept sounded genuinely interesting, little was heard about it over the years. Beyond rumors of playtests that reportedly received a positive reception, we never enjoyed many details of the project, let alone official glimpses, with the closest thing being the reveal teaser trailer.
This is why you might be interested in seeing a bit more about the title. Luckily, we can now get a rare look behind the scenes of the game thanks to some screenshots with concept art, character designs, and mockups that were intended to give an idea of how the game’s menus would have looked.
UI and Character Designs for Contraband
These images were published in the portfolio of an artist who contributed to the game’s development, specifically working on its interfaces, and they mainly illustrate the matchmaking experience, revealing a highly stylized look.
Most notably, the character portraits provide a strong clue about the visual direction. We can observe at least three different character designs in total. Judging by their appearance, it is highly probable that Contraband would have leaned toward a more stylized art style, rather than going for a realistic approach.
Now, based on the UI, it appears that the game intended to focus on 4-player co-op teams. Furthermore, it is suggested that there was a progression system based on different criminal rankings, such as Hustler, Bandit, Smuggler, or Baron.
We can also see one of the maps planned for the game, simply named Downtown, which features a striking illustration of a street at night with different neon-lit storefronts, emphasizing a nocturnal setting and an atmosphere perfect for smuggling operations.
Although these images primarily showcase UI work, we can get a small glimpse of what appears to be an in-game environment. Although only visible as a blurred background for one of the menus, it can be discerned that the scene appears to be a dimly lit safe house with crates and boxes. Considering this is shown behind the recruitment menu, it strongly suggests the location could have functioned as a main hub or a point of interest for the players.
So, what could be next for the developer? That is a difficult thing to predict. This uncertainty stems from the fact that the studio has faced significant internal restructuring following the cancellation of Contraband, including the closure of its Liverpool division and staff reductions across other teams.
Curiously, the studio’s flagship franchise, Just Cause, also has an uncertain future regarding its continuity. As we have previously reported, Sumo Digital was working on a fifth installment in the action series, but this project was short-lived and ultimately faced cancellation.
While Avalanche resuming work on the Just Cause saga would be the best outcome for fans of the action franchise, the studio’s future remains highly uncertain, more so than ever in the current chaotic state of the video game industry.
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