Only a short while a go Disney has announced the closure of Avalanche Software, makers of its Disney Infinity “toys to life” products. As part of the announcement, Disney is ceasing support and production for Infinity products.
“Disney will continue to have a strong console gaming presence through licensing partners such as Electronic Arts and Square Enix, as the category provides a unique consumer experience as well as opportunity for our business,” according to Disney’s announcement.
The announcement may seem shocking, but further information from Disney reveals that toys-to-life games and figures are no longer as profitable as they used to be. “The team behind Disney Infinity created an incredible product. It was a critical success that inspired a deeply engaged community of players. But, despite Disney Infinity’s quality, it has become difficult to financially justify continued investment given the lack of growth in the toys-to-life market. Coupled with high development costs, the economics of our current vertical business model no longer add up.”
Avalanche, unfortunately, has become collateral damage. Rather than pivot the studio, Disney opted to shutter it, leaving many developers out of work. “During this time of transition, we will work with impacted employees to provide resources and support, as well as explore potential internal opportunities. I am grateful to the team behind Disney Infinity, and want to once again thank everyone who has been a part of it.”
What do you think of the news that Disney Infinity is no more.
The way that Disney is handling the closure is disgusting. No prior warning and the opportunity to submit those toyboxes disappears. Ergo every none playset character purchased over the last few months have been missold to fans. Then Disney refuse to comment on their plans so that they can try and sell the final batch of toybox characters, even though there wont be anyone around to approve the new toyboxes.