The Cancelled Age of Sigmar RPG: What Could Have Been

In a surprising revelation, Eurogamer has confirmed that the recently cancelled Warhammer RPG was based on Warhammer: Age of Sigmar. Developed by Thought Pennies in collaboration with Games Workshop and Nexon, the game promised a unique take on the beloved franchise, blending a socially interactive PvE multiplayer experience with the iconic lore of the Mortal Realms. However, a strategic shift from Nexon resulted in the project’s abrupt termination, leaving fans wondering what could have been.

Age of Sigmar Meets RPG Potential

The Age of Sigmar RPG had the makings of an ambitious addition to the Warhammer universe. Set in the despoiled Mortal Realms, the game was designed to immerse players in the struggle against the Chaos Gods. Players would command the war hosts of Sigmar and his allies, embarking on cooperative missions to reclaim the Realms from destruction.

According to a 2021 press release, the game was intended to feature:

• Socially interactive PvE multiplayer gameplay: Encouraging teamwork and cooperation.
• Seasonal updates: Players would collect unique characters and venture into new realms.
• Customization options: Characters would have unique stories, gameplay mechanics, and customization possibilities.
• Multi-platform availability: The game was planned for PC, consoles, and mobile devices, broadening its reach to various audiences.

This vision aligned with Nexon’s “world-class Live Operations,” designed to provide ongoing updates and fresh content to keep the experience engaging over time.

Why It Was Cancelled

Despite the promising concept and strong partnerships, the project’s development hit a roadblock when Nexon made a strategic change in late 2024. Thought Pennies confirmed that while the collaboration was fruitful and received positive input from Nexon, the publisher ultimately decided to end the project.

In a statement to Eurogamer, Thought Pennies explained:

“Late last year we agreed to end the project, and Nexon is helping as a board member.”

This sudden pivot highlights the volatile nature of game development, where strategic decisions can drastically alter a project’s fate, even in the advanced stages of production.

What the Age of Sigmar RPG Could Have Offered

The description of the game hinted at rich storytelling and dynamic gameplay. Players would not only engage in epic battles but also shape the course of the Mortal Realms through cooperative efforts. Each season promised fresh content, new characters, and evolving narratives.

The customization options for characters, combined with a focus on cooperative gameplay, suggested a deep and replayable experience. Players could guide how sections of the Realms were retaken, adding a layer of strategy and progression.

Games Workshop’s Vision for Warhammer’s Future

While the cancellation of the Age of Sigmar RPG is disappointing, Games Workshop remains committed to expanding the Warhammer franchise. Following the success of Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2, the company is actively seeking “the next one” to continue the series’ momentum.

Additionally, Games Workshop has partnered with Amazon Studios to bring Warhammer 40K to film and television. This move aims to introduce the Warhammer universe to a broader audience, potentially paving the way for new opportunities in gaming and other media.

What This Means for Fans

The cancellation of the Age of Sigmar RPG is undoubtedly a loss for Warhammer enthusiasts, particularly those eager to see the Mortal Realms brought to life in an expansive RPG format. However, the continued focus on the Warhammer franchise by Games Workshop and Nexon suggests that this isn’t the end of ambitious projects.

With Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2 already proving the franchise’s viability in gaming and upcoming Amazon adaptations, the potential for future projects remains strong.