Marvel's Blade budget revealed. Microsoft to decide Arkane's fate

The cost of developing modern AAA games continues to rise. One of Arkane Lyon's most expensive projects is Marvel's Blade.

According to official reports from the French government, over 94 million euros have been allocated for the creation of the vampire hunter game Marvel's Blade in 2023–2026 alone. Since the release is not expected before the end of 2027, the final budget for the project will likely exceed 100 million euros.

For comparison, the studio's debut game, Arx Fatalis, released in 2002, cost only $1.3 million — almost a hundred times less.

Such a sharp increase in costs reflects the situation in the AAA games market, explaining Arkane Lyon's difficult position. It is reported that the development of Marvel's Blade is at an advanced stage, and a full reveal was planned before the end of the year.

However, Microsoft, which owns the studio, is currently undergoing a major restructuring. The company is considering various options for Arkane Lyon's future, including a possible sale of the studio, a management buyout, or significant staff reductions. For the team, the success of Marvel's Blade could be a matter of survival.