The original creators behind the beloved sci-fi horror series Dead Space revealed in a recent interview that they pitched Electronic Arts (EA) on a potential Dead Space 4 earlier this year. However, the gaming giant ultimately decided against pursuing the project, citing market considerations.
A Passionate Pitch From Gaming Legends
In a conversation with Dan Allen Gaming, Glen Schofield, Christopher Stone, and Bret Robbins—key figures behind the original Dead Space trilogy developed at EA Redwood Shores (later renamed Visceral Games)—shared their hopes and ideas for reviving the iconic franchise. The three creatives reportedly teamed up to approach EA with their vision for a new chapter in the series.
“We tried, actually, the three of us,” Schofield said during the interview. “Dead Space 4. We’re talking this year.”
Despite their enthusiasm, EA turned them down, with Schofield suggesting that sales projections and financial viability may have played a significant role in the decision.
“They just said, ‘We’re not interested right now. We appreciate it blah blah blah, and you know we know who to talk to,’” Schofield recounted. “They know their numbers and what they have to ship.”
Challenges in a Risk-Averse Industry
Christopher Stone, reflecting on the rejection, pointed to broader challenges within the gaming industry.
“The industry is in a weird place right now,” Stone explained. “People are really hesitant to take chances on things. So you got to take it with a grain of salt. Who knows, maybe one day.”
Schofield echoed Stone’s sentiment, noting that while EA’s decision was disappointing, they respected the publisher’s reasoning.
“Yeah, we got some ideas,” Schofield added optimistically. “Who knows what the future holds.”
EA’s Priorities Lie Elsewhere
EA has been heavily focused on its core franchises, including its successful sports titles (FIFA, Madden NFL), The Sims, and Respawn’s Star Wars Jedi series, with a third installment currently in development. Meanwhile, BioWare is advancing its efforts on Mass Effect 5 following the release of Dragon Age: Veilguard.
The last major release in the Dead Space series was Dead Space 3 in 2013. While EA revived the franchise with the critically acclaimed 2023 Dead Space Remake, there has been no official word about a new mainline installment.
“We’d Love to Make Dead Space 4”
Despite EA’s lack of interest, the creators remain hopeful about the franchise’s future.
“I’d make a Dead Space 4,” Stone declared unequivocally.
Schofield and Stone’s enthusiasm reflects their deep connection to the series, which set a gold standard for atmospheric survival horror games. Fans, too, have been vocal about their desire to see the franchise return in full force.
The Legacy of Dead Space
The Dead Space series has cemented its place as a cult classic within the gaming world, celebrated for its terrifying atmosphere, compelling narrative, and innovative gameplay mechanics. Its unique blend of psychological horror and science fiction continues to inspire both players and developers alike.
While Dead Space 4 may not be in the pipeline for now, the creators’ passion and enduring ideas leave the door open for a possible return. Until then, fans will have to make do with revisiting the series’ harrowing corridors through remakes and past titles.
As the gaming industry evolves, so too does the hope that bold and innovative projects like Dead Space 4 will find their moment in the spotlight. For now, it remains a chilling dream for both its creators and fans.
