A video game set in The Batman universe is reportedly in development, according to The Puck.
Warner Bros. Discovery divisions are collaborating more closely on projects—such as the Penguin HBO show and game—both of which are connected to 2022’s The Batman movie. This collaboration highlights the strategic value of the games unit within the larger Warner Bros. Discovery ecosystem.
James Gunn, the co-CEO of DC Studios, has already hinted at his ambition to connect his universes across all types of formats—including large and small screens, books, and video games.
On X, back in February 2023, Gunn claimed that an AAA game can take about four years to make, which means we may see the first game in this DC universe by 2027.
Back in 2020, AT&T attempted to sell the Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment video games unit for $4 billion but later deemed it “too valuable to unload.” When David Zaslav took over, many advised him to offload the games division, but he still views it as strategic. Various Warner Bros. Discovery divisions are collaborating more closely on properties, such as the upcoming Penguin HBO show and game, both rooted in the Batman movie. Despite Zaslav’s current stance, the assessment could change, and potential buyers, including private equity firms or strategic gaming companies, might be interested in a purchase or partnership. However, the valuation WBD seeks might not be palatable to buyers.
LightShed media analyst Rich Greenfield believes Warner Bros. should have sold the division two years ago, before the release of its blockbuster Harry Potter game. Greenfield notes that while a sale is still possible today, the industry has cooled significantly, and Warner Bros.’s fortunes have suffered due to the recent loss on the Suicide Squad game.
The Batman was recently re-released in theaters, featuring a sneak peek of The Penguin. The show will premiere on Max on September 19, 2024.
Source: The Puck
