Square Enix likely to let IO Interactive keep Hitman franchise amidst studio sale

By now it's no secret that publisher Square Enix is looking to sell off one of their subsidiary developers, IO Interactive. The studio just so happens to be the minds behind the Hitman franchise, which recently wrapped up a largely successful reboot of the franchise. With so much uncertainty looming over the franchise and the studio, there were rumors that the Hitman brand was staying with IO Interactive.

Those rumors appear to have traction behind them as Square Enix President, Yosuke Matsuda told investors in a financial briefing document, that they were willing to let go of the Hitman franchise so that it could "carry on."

He said:

"Because the firm is engaged in the development of Hitman and other renowned titles, we are negotiating with prospective external investors capable of ensuring that these titles carry on."

The statement confirms that IO Interactive is working on another Hitman game, presumably Season 2. Attaching a brand like Hitman with the studio as a packaged deal should, in theory, make it a more attractive offering to a prospective buyer. Hopefully, the situation can get resolved soon so that IO can focus itself 100% on more Hitman.

Source: [Eurogamer]