In a significant turn of events, Bad Brain Game Studios, a subsidiary of NetEase, has announced its impending shutdown due to unsuccessful attempts to secure a new partner for its project, Midnight Riders. This closure, set for November 17th, 2025, underscores the challenges faced by game developers in an increasingly competitive landscape, particularly when it comes to securing funding and partnerships. Founded in 2023 with a team of former Ubisoft Toronto staff, Bad Brain Game Studios was part of NetEase’s expansion into the Canadian gaming market.