Xbox was delayed and will debut until 2025

During the Microsoft and Bethesda conference at E3 2021, the first teaser for Contraband, the latest project from Avalanche Studios, was shared. Since then, little official information has seen the light of day. The community hoped that there would be news soon, but it seems that the wait will continue.

Next Sunday, June 9, the Xbox Games Showcase will take place, a digital event where Microsoft will share previews of its upcoming projects. In addition to Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, rumors suggest that we could learn more information about Indiana Jones and the Great Circle and Avowed.

Fans are also hoping to get more details on Contraband during the event, but a new rumor casts doubt on its appearance and release window.

Contraband was delayed and will arrive until next year, according to rumor

During the latest episode of the XNC Podcast, host and reporter Middleagegamegy, also known simply as Magg, stated that Contraband will not debut this year due to being delayed internally. As he explains, he now aims for a launch in 2025.

“I have been told that it was delayed and that it will debut well into 2025; for all we know, it could be the end of 2025,” Magg said. During the live broadcast of the podcast, prestigious journalist Tom Warren from The Verge intervened and wrote in the chat that, indeed, “Contraband is very far away.”

Although these statements may be worrying, Middleagegamegy indicates that the feedback from people who have already tried the Xbox exclusive is quite positive. Furthermore, he stated that the general tone is reminiscent of Battlefield: Hardline, Pay Day and Driver.

“People who played it said it's very fun and cool. It was a very early build, since the cars didn't even have drivers,” said the presenter.

While this information is not confirmed, it makes sense if we consider the context. Recently, Avalanche Studios Group confirmed the closure of its studios in New York and Montreal, resulting in a reduction of 50 jobs, or 9% of the workforce. This report came shortly after an insider pointed out that Contraband is facing serious development problems.

But tell us, do you think the game will appear in the next Xbox Games Showcase? Are you looking forward to it? Let us read you in the comments.