Prey 2 fans recently rejoiced at the news that the open world first-person shooter wasn't cancelled, contrary to popular rumors. However, the sequel was delayed from its intended 2012 release due to "quality" issues but it seems there's more to the story than just that. According to an inside source, developer Human Head hasn't worked on the title since November, 2011.
Shack News' anonymous source has stated that the studio was apparently unhappy regarding the term of its contract with ZeniMax, which is Bethesda's parent company. They intentionally ceased development on Prey 2 last year during November, in order to strike a more positive deal.
The decision to halt work on the shooter didn't go down so well with ZeniMax, though. A considerable portion of the development team were consequently laid off, but the former staff members hoped that they'd be brought back by ZeniMax if the contract issues were sorted out.
Positive momentum towards a renegotiated contract was seemingly the outcome up until January, 2012 where ZeniMax decided to channel out any communication with Human Head. That said, progress was made during the latter stages of February but matters were "soured" on March 2nd, which is the last date where the source would provide first-hand information.
When Shack News contacted ZeniMax for a response, they stated that the firm "aren't commenting on the game's development beyond what was said in the statement that was released this morning." Said statement, meanwhile, claimed that Prey 2 was delayed due to the fact that "development has not progressed satisfactorily this past year, and the game does not currently meet our quality standards."
