Bungie, a developer known for games like Halo and Destiny, is rumored to be venturing into uncharted territory with an exciting new project, codenamed “Gummy Bears.” Known for creating immersive sci-fi worlds, Bungie is reportedly shifting gears to deliver a vibrant and youthful gaming experience.
According to The Game Post, Gummy Bears is a team-based competitive MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) with gameplay inspired by Nintendo’s iconic Super Smash Bros.
Unlike traditional MOBAs, Gummy Bears replaces health bars with a percentage-based damage system. As players take or deal damage, their characters are knocked back further, with the potential to be launched off the stage entirely—a hallmark of Super Smash Bros. gameplay.
The game is said to include multiple modes and three distinct roles: Attack, Defense, and Support. While primarily focused on player-vs-player (PvP) combat, there is speculation that player-vs-environment (PvE) elements could also be included.
Internally, Gummy Bears has been described as Bungie’s “most fun” project to date, suggesting a strong commitment to creating an engaging and innovative experience.
Aiming for a Younger Audience
In a significant departure from its darker, high-stakes narratives, Bungie is reportedly embracing a lo-fi, cozy aesthetic for Gummy Bears. Early images depict cheerful, colorful visuals designed to appeal to younger players. This tonal shift marks Bungie’s effort to diversify its portfolio and reach new demographics.
Development and Transition
Reports further indicate that Gummy Bears has been in development for over three years. Initially under Bungie’s direct oversight, the project is now moved to an unnamed PlayStation studio following restructuring at Bungie. Approximately 40 former Bungie developers are leading the game’s development within PlayStation Studios.
This transition came after Bungie laid off 220 employees and realigned its focus on other projects, including Destiny 2: The Final Shape and the extraction shooter Marathon. Despite these challenges, Gummy Bears remains a priority.
Sources: The Game Post Reports