The company that was behind some of gaming's most classic titles, like the original Fable and Black and White series, has been shuttered for good. After more than 20 years of development, the Microsoft owned studio is now closed, with team members scattered to the winds. Some will remain at Microsoft but others will be looking for new, greener pastures to explore.
Lionhead Studios was founded by British game designer, Peter Molyneux, after he left Bullfrog before its buyout by EA games. It then spent five years working away on the original Black and White, reshaping how we all see the God Game when it released, as well as introducing some innovative - as yet unrepeated - pet training mechanics.
Getting ready to go to work at #Lionhead for the last time. Hardest thing I've ever had to do. #BestTeamEver pic.twitter.com/0dFakXIqLw
— Callum Macarthur (@ThirteenOranges) April 29, 2016
In the years that followed it branched out creating other games like Fable from its satellite studios, continuing that franchise throughout the '00s even after Molyneux moved on and Microsoft purchased the studio.
Its most recent game went back to its roots and released Fable Anniversary and has been working on Fable Legends over the past couple of years - but now that Microsoft has shuttered it, that game will never see the light of day, having been officially cancelled.
The team at Lionhead posted a number of sad messages about their last days at the company in recent weeks, though today will be their final lament.
Best wishes to all of those involved and thanks for all the games.
