A Former Developer Unveils Footage of Activision's Canceled 2003 Iron Man Game
Recently, former Genepool Software developer Kevin Edwards shared previously unseen images and footage of a cancelled 2003 Iron Man game on Twitter (now X). This article delves into the game's development and its ultimate cancellation.
Edwards' Twitter posts showcased the game's title card, Genepool Software's logo, and gameplay screenshots. He further revealed original Xbox gameplay footage, including the startup screen and a tutorial segment set in a desert environment. The game's working title was "The Invincible Iron Man," a nod to the character's original comic book name. Development reportedly began shortly after the release of Genepool Software's X-Men 2: Wolverine’s Revenge.
Despite enthusiastic fan response, Activision cancelled "The Invincible Iron Man" just months into development. Genepool Software subsequently closed, leaving the team unemployed. While Activision never publicly explained the cancellation, Edwards offered several potential reasons: delays in the Iron Man film, dissatisfaction with the game's progress, or perhaps another developer being chosen for the project.
Many commenters noted the game's Iron Man design, significantly different from Robert Downey Jr.'s MCU portrayal. The design closely resembled the "Ultimate Marvel" comic book version of the early 2000s, predating the MCU by almost five years. Edwards stated he was unaware of the reasoning behind this design choice.
He promised to release more gameplay footage, but at the time of writing, this footage has yet to be shared.