Cuphead is one of the most anticipated releases in recent years. And the game will finally make its debut on PC and Xbox One this fall. But despite owning the rights to the IP, and Microsoft’s softening stance on exclusivity, developer StudioMDHR says it doesn’t plan to release Cuphead on PlayStation 4. Now or in the future.
Cuphead is a 2D platformer designed to look like a cartoon from the 1930s. StudioMDHR has been working on the project since 2010, but the team’s goals have evolved over the last seven years. Cuphead was originally a boss rush, the most common descriptor for games comprised entirely of boss encounters, before the project expanded to include traditional platforming segments in 2015. The decision was largely motivated by fan feedback, with many convention goers shocked to learn there wasn’t anything separating Cuphead ’s boss encounters. But all of that work is nearly complete. Last month, StudioMDHR announced Cuphead would debut at the end of September. But it doesn’t sound like there’s any chance of seeing a PS4 announcement down the road.
A member of the Cuphead team popped into a NeoGAF thread about the game to confirm the studio owns the rights to the upcoming platformer. But StudioMDHR isn’t planning to release a slew of ports when Cuphead ’s previously agreed upon Xbox One exclusivity period comes to an end. It’ll get some additional OS support. But that’s it.
“This Cuphead game is exclusive to Xbox and PC,” StudioMDHR wrote. “There will likely be a Mac version down the road and possibly a Linux version beyond that.”
Unfortunately, there’s no additional explanation for the studio’s decision to skip a PS4 release. Some outlets are reporting that StudioMDHR’s wording suggests the studio could have plans for a sequel -- which may or may not be available on Sony’s latest console -- but there aren’t any clear statements about a Cuphead follow-up in the thread.
For an early look at Cuphead -- one of the best-looking indie games we’ve ever seen -- check out the gameplay footage that debuted at E3. Then head down to the comments section and let us know what you think of StudioMDHR’s decision not to release Cuphead on PS4.
Cuphead is in development for PC and Xbox One. The game debuts Sept. 29.
Be sure to check back with Player.One and follow Scott on Twitter for additional Cuphead news in 2017 and however long StudioMDHR supports Cuphead after launch.
