Just Cause Creator Challenges Industry with New Crime Game Samson

Daily Games

·

09/04/2026

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In a challenging period for the games industry, marked by widespread layoffs and a heavy reliance on sequels, one veteran developer is making a bold statement. Christopher Sundberg, a co-creator of the popular Just Cause series, has launched a new studio and its debut title, aiming to push back against current market trends and creative stagnation.

A Statement Through Gameplay

Sundberg's new studio, Liquid Swords, recently released Samson, a gritty, Max Payne-esque crime thriller on Steam. The launch is more than just a new game; it's a deliberate act of defiance. In a recent interview with GamesRadar+, Sundberg expressed his frustration with the industry's direction, stating he is sick of "swallowing all the crap that the industry feeds us."

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This sentiment positions Samson as an attempt to reintroduce a type of focused, narrative-driven new IP that has become increasingly rare. Sundberg explained his motivation, stating, "I can't just sit and watch leaders of this business, just flushing it all down in the toilet. I'd rather go down screaming, than haven't at least tried to get us back on track." The game itself is a hard-boiled story of crime and revenge, a focused slice of an open-world crime experience.

Reception and Future Outlook

Despite the strong vision behind it, the initial public reception for Samson has been lukewarm. The game currently holds a "Mixed" rating on Steam. Early players have pointed out issues such as clunky combat and driving mechanics, performance problems, and various bugs. One of the top positive reviews describes the game as "surprisingly alright," suggesting it may not yet fully realize its ambitions.

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The path forward for Samson remains to be seen. Liquid Swords has the opportunity to address the community's feedback through patches and updates, potentially improving the experience over time. Regardless of its ultimate commercial success, the game's launch serves as a significant event. It highlights the tension between creative risk-taking and the realities of game development, sparking a necessary conversation about the future direction of the industry.

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