Halo Infinite lead’s new company says it’s in trouble
Xbox veteran’s NetEase studio is “halting” development on its game due to funding issues
Jar of Sparks, the studio founded in 2022 by Xbox veteran Jerry Hook in partnership with publisher NetEase, says it is halting development on its debut game in the hope of securing new funding.
The Seattle-based company was working on “a new generation of narrative-driven action games,” according to its original announcement. However, an update posted on LinkedIn this week it said it’s now allowing staff to find new work as it seeks a new publishing partner.
“Earlier today, we notified our team that Jar of Sparks will be halting work on our current title as we search for a new publishing partner who can help bring our creative vision to life,” the update reads.
“Throughout this journey, our passionate, driven, and innovative team took bold risks and pushed boundaries, striving to create something truly new and exciting for the industry. We couldn’t be prouder of the groundwork we’ve laid together.”
The post continues: “As we prepare for this next step, our talented team members will be exploring new opportunities. If you’re searching for exceptional professionals who are driven and think outside the box, please reach out. We’d be more than happy to connect you with some of the best developers I have had the pleasure of working beside.
“From the day we formed Jar of Sparks to this very moment, this team has accomplished remarkable feats—proving that a small, focused, and dedicated group can achieve great results. We thank each of them for their courage, skill, and friendship.
“Thank you to everyone who supported us throughout our journey here at Jar of Sparks, we look forward to updating you all with our next step in our journey.”
Jar of Sparks CEO and studio head Hook is a Microsoft veteran who helped launch the original Xbox and was a founding member of Xbox Live. He has held executive roles across multiple disciplines for the Halo and Destiny franchises, most recently serving as head of design for Halo Infinite.
Hook was joined by creative director Paul Crocker, who was lead narrative director on Rocksteady’s Batman: Arkham trilogy, executive producer Greg Stone, who was a producer on Doom and Halo Infinite, and gameplay director Steve Dyck, who previously worked as an animation director and design director for titles in the Halo, SSX and NBA Street franchises.
