Braben notes it ”seems unlikely” the 2nd Call of Duty studio is going anywhere, but they’ve ”nervously wondered” where they can go afterward he’s sure.
”At the start of this process, Treyarch were very much in the shadow of Infinity Ward in terms of quality (apologies to those involved),” Braben told Develop. Yes Treyarch were defiantly playing second fiddle to the creator of the franchise - no surprise there.
”But with time they have improved hugely, in my opinion, and I imagine they can now carry the CoD brand successfully themselves going forwards, and the great bulk of players that don’t follow gaming news sites will simply not notice,” he continued.
“Having said that, woes betide the brand if Treyarch goes the way of Infinity Ward – though to be honest, that seems unlikely. I’m sure those at Treyarch have nervously wondered what the future might hold for them if they want to work on something else too.”
“I suspect it will be different, though, and they will be treated as Activision’s new best friends, at least until another potential torch-bearer is in place.” Activision will ”rue the day” they let Infinity Ward’s cream crop slip their grasp warns Braben, especially to EA.