Quantum Break

Quantum Break is a 2016 action-adventure third-person shooter video game developed by Remedy Entertainment and published by Microsoft Studios. The game centers on Jack Joyce (Shawn Ashmore), granted time manipulation powers after a failed time-machine experiment, as he comes into conflict with former friend Paul Serene over how to deal with an apocalyptic "End of Time". Environmental puzzle segments incorporate 3D platform game elements, and "junction points" can affect the game's outcome. Episodes of a live-action television show, featuring the same actors as the characters, are integrated into the game, with segments that change based on the player's actions. The game originally was envisioned as a sequel to Remedy's previous game, Alan Wake. The game's focus was shifted to time travel, as Microsoft wanted a new intellectual property with interactive storytelling. The team consulted scientists while creating the fictional science in this game. While the video game portion was developed internally by Remedy and directed by studio veteran Sam Lake, the TV side of the game was produced in collaboration with Lifeboat Productions and directed by Ben Ketai. Alongside Ashmore, the game features actors Aidan Gillen and Lance Reddick portraying important roles in the game. The game was designed to appeal to a broad audience, with Remedy describing the game's story as a "summer blockbuster movie". The game uses a new engine developed by Remedy, the Northlight engine, and a technology called Digital Molecular Matter. The game was announced in mid-2013 and was set to release in 2015, but its release was delayed to avoid competition with other Xbox One exclusives. The game was released in April 2016 for Windows and Xbox One. It was well received, with critics praising the game's graphics, gameplay, presentation, performances, and story. Critics had mixed opinions regarding the platforming elements, the convergence of video game and television, and the overall quality of the TV show. The Windows 10 version was criticized for its technical issues. Quantum Break was the best-selling new intellectual property published by Microsoft since the launch of Xbox One, though the record was broken two years later by Sea of Thieves.