Cities: Skylines 2 will no longer be developed by Colossal Order, following a ‘mutual’ separation from game publisher, Paradox Interactive. The news follows a very rocky launch for the game in 2023, and two years of challenges with patches and DLC content.
In a blog update, Paradox Interactive confirmed an agreement for Colossal Order to leave behind work on Cities: Skylines 2, with Paradox’s own Iceflake Studios (Surviving the Aftermath) taking over development. Currently, this studio is working to familiarise itself with the game, and planning for free updates, as well as future expansions and content packs.
Cities: Skylines 2 developer change – quick links
Colossal Order and Paradox Interactive confirm split over Cities: Skylines 2
‘Our partnership with Colossal Order is one of the longest-running relationships we’ve enjoyed here at Paradox,’ Mattias Lilja, Deputy CEO at Paradox Interactive said.
‘Four games, dozens of expansions, and a community of millions of Cities players; it’s remarkable how much we’ve achieved together. We have deep respect for the Colossal Order team and we look forward to seeing where they go from here. On our end, we’re eager to continue working for the passionate Cities: Skylines community and make sure to provide them with more content and new experiences.’
For its part, Colossal Order has also released a statement celebrating its work-to-date on the Cities franchise, and how it’s inspired a community of ‘passionate, loyal’ players around the world.
‘We want to thank everyone at Paradox for their trust and collaboration, and of course the community for the incredible support that has made Cities what it is today,’ Mariina Hallikainen, CEO of Colossal Order said.
‘We’re confident that the franchise will continue to thrive under Paradox’s leadership. As we move forward, we’re excited to channel our experience, creativity, and passion into new projects that align with our long-term vision.’
What’s next for Cities: Skylines 2?
As announced, Cities: Skylines 2 will continue development under Iceflake Studios, with a view to turn the ship around, and provide ample content updates to address player criticisms.
Colossal Order will implement a handful of additional game updates prior to departing, including an update adding in bikes and Old Town buildings, alongside various improvements. The studio will also aid the beta implementation of asset support for the game’s editor (including asset mods).
From 2026, development of Cities: Skylines 2 will be entirely up to Iceflake Studios. Per Lasse Liljedahl, Studio Manager, it’s a challenge the team will relish, as it ‘humbly carries’ the legacy of the franchise.
‘There’s a huge, loyal community out there and I want to say to every member of that community that we will humbly carry this legacy with respect, together with all of you,’ Liljedahl said.
‘Iceflake has the capacity and capability to get started. We have a decade worth of experience from making city building and management games. We see a strong foundation and so much potential waiting to be unleashed and I can’t wait to show you what we have planned for the next chapter of this incredible game.’
As noted, Iceflake Studios now has a significant responsibility on its shoulders, following in the footsteps of Colossal Order. We’ll have to stay tuned to see how Cities: Skylines 2 evolves from here, and where Colossal Order heads next.
Also on ScreenHub: The Game Awards 2025 nominations recognise the best games of the year
Nominations for The Game Awards 2025 have been announced, with a range of well-deserving games getting nods across an array of categories. Game of the Year is particularly stacked, with titles including Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Ghost of Yōtei and Hollow Knight: Silksong vying for the crown – but the same applies to nearly every category. Across awards for narrative, art direction, music and more, the best games of the year have been underlined by their nominations.
Read more …
