"Wheel of Time RPG Confirmed, No Release Date Set - PS6 and Next Xbox Possible"

The recent announcement of a video game based on Robert Jordan's epic 14-book series, The Wheel of Time, has stirred a mix of excitement and skepticism among fans. As reported by Variety, this upcoming "AAA open-world role-playing game" is slated for release on PC and consoles, with a development timeline of three years. The project is being spearheaded by iwot Studios' new Montreal-based game developer, under the leadership of former Warner Bros. Games executive, Craig Alexander. Alexander's impressive track record with franchises like The Lord of the Rings Online, Dungeons & Dragons Online, and Asheron's Call would typically fuel anticipation. However, the involvement of iwot Studios, which acquired the rights to The Wheel of Time as Red Eagle Entertainment in 2004, and the ambitious three-year development period have raised doubts among fans.

A quick online search reveals a strained relationship between iwot Studios and the dedicated The Wheel of Time fanbase. Numerous posts express skepticism, with some accusing iwot of merely holding onto the IP without significant progress, labeling them as an "IP camper." Others lament the perceived squandering of the franchise over the years, referencing failed projects and a particularly critical Reddit post from a decade ago. The notion that a newly established studio could swiftly deliver a triple-A RPG that meets the high expectations of The Wheel of Time enthusiasts has led to a widespread "we'll believe it when we see it" sentiment online.

Despite these concerns, the franchise has enjoyed renewed interest thanks to the success of its Amazon Prime Video series. After completing its third season, and with a fourth yet to be announced, the show has not only attracted a new wave of fans but also managed to regain favor with core fans after a more faithful adaptation in Season 3, following significant deviations in the first two seasons.

To gain deeper insights into the project, I conducted a video interview with Rick Selvage, the head of iwot Studios, and Craig Alexander, the studio head for their gaming division. Our discussion focused on the project's current status, its scope, what fans can anticipate, and how they address the online criticism they've faced.