The unexpected cancellation of the Xbox blockbuster Perfect Dark left fans and creators alike in disbelief. Alix Wilton Regan, the actress behind Joanna Dark, shared insights into the project’s progress before its abrupt end. The highly anticipated reboot seemed to be well underway with significant performance capture already completed.
A Sudden Halt for Perfect Dark
In a revealing conversation with TheGamer, Regan, known for her roles in Dragon Age and Cyberpunk 2077, discussed her years-long involvement with The Initiative’s Perfect Dark reboot, having started recording in 2023. By 2024, the project’s development was in full swing, continuing into early 2025. “To my knowledge, we were pretty far along, I’d done entire chapters of this universe,” Regan expressed, noting her shock upon learning of Microsoft’s decision to shut down the project and the studio amid funding cuts and layoffs.
The announcement came as a blow not only to Regan but to the entire workforce left jobless. “I was as shocked, surprised, and devastated as everyone else was when the funding was pulled, and the studio was closed,” she lamented. “So many people lost their jobs. An entire workforce was disbanded.”
Attempted Rescues and Final Farewell
Efforts to rescue Perfect Dark from its downfall were ultimately unsuccessful. Regan had inside knowledge of the negotiations aimed at reviving the game, which might have led to a “slimmed-down” version. She recounted, “I couldn’t say too much about it because I knew The Initiative was in talks to keep Perfect Dark up and running in some shape or form.” Ultimately, the deal failed, with creative director confirmation that efforts had collapsed.
Reports suggested that the plan involved collaboration with Crystal Dynamics, known for their work on Tomb Raider. Despite leadership from both studios seeking alternative publishers and funding sources, including discussions with Take-Two Interactive, disagreements over property ownership led to the deal’s collapse. This ultimately resulted in further layoffs at Crystal Dynamics, extinguishing any remaining hope for the project’s continuation.
New Beginnings for Alix Wilton Regan
Meanwhile, the former head of Perfect Dark, Darrell Gallagher, and director Brian Horton, have joined 2K to launch a new studio, though details remain scarce. As for Alix Wilton Regan, she has found a fresh role as Lara Croft, taking the lead in next year’s Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis and the upcoming Tomb Raider: Catalyst, scheduled for 2027.
The gaming community anxiously awaits further updates on these new projects and the potential return of beloved characters.