Deceive Inc. Gets Backend Overhaul for User-Hosted Servers After Developer Disbanded
A game whose developer disbanded and whose servers were at risk of shutdown is now being rebuilt for community-hosted play, extending its life through a likely publisher-led effort.
Reporting from 1 source: Automaton.
The multiplayer spy FPS Deceive Inc., whose developer Sweet Bandits disbanded in December 2024, is getting a backend overhaul to allow user-hosted servers. An unsigned Steam post on July 17, 2026, announced the rework, which preserves player progress and considers console cross-play. Public beta testing on Steam is expected in about a month. The publisher Tripwire Presents may be leading the effort.
The multiplayer spy FPS Deceive Inc. has been in a precarious state since its developer Sweet Bandits disbanded in December 2024. On July 17, 2026, an unsigned post on the game's Steam news page announced a backend rebuild to allow user-hosted servers, preserving player progress and unlocked content. The post also mentioned considering console versions with cross-play, and continuing a small number of official servers. Public beta testing on Steam is expected in about a month. It is unclear who is leading the redevelopment, though publisher Tripwire Presents is a likely candidate. The game, which earned a 'Very Positive' rating on Steam, had its future in doubt after the studio closure.
Synthesized by Yomimono from the 1 cited source below, including Japanese-language reporting where cited, then editorially reviewed before publishing.