Xbox Game Studios, in partnership with Avalanche Studios, recently announced a brand new co-op, open-world game, titled “Contraband”, at E3 2021. Set in the 1970s smuggler’s paradise of Bayan, Contraband promises to be their “most ambitious and spectacular game to date”. The studios have previously delivered master class titles, including their “Just Cause” game series; so we can expect similar quality from this current novel release.
What is Contraband's release date?
Unfortunately, there is no release window indicated for this game. We can speculate, however, that the game will likely launch around Summer next year since the majority of other games announced were set to release during this time.
(Picture: Avalanche Studios)
It is confirmed that the game will launch exclusively on the Xbox Series X/S game consoles, with a later release for PC. The game will also be available on Xbox Game Pass for free, from day one.
In case you missed the reveal, check out the teaser trailer of Contraband below.
Contraband: Gameplay and development
The Contraband launch trailer opens with the song “Do It Again” by Steely Dan and gives us a glimpse into the look and feel of the game. The trailer remains vague throughout and does not reveal any detail regarding the gameplay, plot or characters; nor does it provide any substantial backstory for them.
(Picture: Avalanche Studios)
Considering the game’s name, “Contraband”, we suspect that it will be a heist game. This is supported by a brief depiction of a heist, titled the “Sun River Job”, shown during the game trailer.
Toward the end of the trailer, we see a character (although we can’t see their face) attending to repairs whilst laying underneath a Jeep. On top of the Jeep lies an open red box, which later reveals the title of the game.
Does Contraband sound like your type of game? Then rest assured that we’ll have all the details covered for you, as soon as they are made available.
Contraband will launch exclusively on the Xbox Series X/S and PC in the (hopefully) not too distant future.
For more E3 2021 coverage, check out our general video games section, filled with announcements and explainers on the latest titles.
