'Crackdown 3' Release Date Pushed Back to 2019, Microsoft Confirms

“Crackdown 3” will not be released until 2019, Microsoft recently confirmed.

Fans have been wondering when they can finally get their hands on the upcoming main installment of Microsoft’s hit open-world shooter game “Crackdown.” Recently, there were rumors that its release is going to be delayed.

Unfortunately, Microsoft confirmed the bad news on Thursday. In a statement to Windows Central, the company explained, “Our fans' response to the signature antics and explosive gameplay of ‘Crackdown 3’ has been incredible. To ensure we deliver the experience they deserve, ‘Crackdown 3’ will be launching in Feb 2019.”

The game was initially slated for a spring 2018 release.

When “Crackdown 3” was first announced at the Electronic Entertainment Expo last year, many thought that the game would be released along with Microsoft’s powerful, latest-generation console Xbox One X.

Meanwhile, Windows Central reported that the development of “Crackdown 3” is on track, as confirmed by its sources. It is likely that Microsoft just needed more time to release “Crackdown 3” as a game that is worthy to be lined up with its other successful franchises like “Halo,” “Gears of War” and “Forza.”

So far, it has been revealed that the “Crackdown 3” plot will take place 10 years after the events in the predecessor, “Crackdown 2.” The story revolves around an attack originating from the in-game map named New Providence. The attack led to the loss of power source all over the world.

However, “Crackdown 3’s” animation is far from being dark. Gaming fans will immediately notice the dominance of neon lights and laser beams coming from the characters’ weapons. Available gameplay details also hint that playable characters, called Agents, will have the ability to jump over tall buildings as they get upgraded. Players can also use “transforming vehicles” to get around the game maps.

To make up for the delay in “Crackdown 3’s” launch, Microsoft promised to unveil more gameplay details during its press event on Sunday, June 10, ahead of E3 2018.