Just as a new trailer was released and things were on the up and up, things might not be so rosy for the new AEW video game. Even though the trailers came out to pretty positive feedback, one key player on the AEW side isn't too happy.
Sources told SportsGamersOnline that Kenny Omega, wrestler and executive vice president of AEW, isn't too happy with things. The relationship between Yuke's and AEW, specifically Kenny Omega, is currently strained. According to sources close to the game's development, Omega has become frustrated and "hates" working with Yuke's. One person even stated that Yuke's was attempting to "take advantage" of an inexperienced Omega in this position at times.
There have been numerous instances of disagreements over the game's direction and development constraints. AEW has put a lot of money into production, but the game is currently "far over budget." It even required further investment, albeit SGO's sources did not specify the amount. As a result of the budget constraints, several game elements have been scaled back or eliminated.
Roster size is causing one of the biggest arguments and budget problems. According to Fightful Select, the roster size will be around 50 wrestlers at launch, and AEW does want to increase the roster size via DLC post-launch due to the game not being made for a yearly release. However, before committing to a fully-fledged DLC plan, Yuke's is pushing for a long-term agreement for future game development. Unfortunately, that's something AEW isn't ready to commit to.
SGO adds that Yuke is willing to work on repairing the relationship, but AEW is starting to have second thoughts about any new projects in collaboration with Yuke moving forward. The power right now seems to be in the hands of whoever owns the game engine; if Yuke owns it, there's more pressure on AEW; if AEW owns it, they can walk away.
