In a sad yet nonetheless funny punchline to one of the longest running jokes in game development history, it was recently confirmed that Duke Nukem Forever developer 3D Realms will be closing its doors by the end of the week. Publishing company Take-Two will retain all rights to the game, meaning that 3D Realms can’t shop it around to anyone else.
First announced in 1997 as a Quake II engine product, Duke Nukem Forever faced a number of development setbacks, including publisher conflicts and no less than three midstream engine changes. Set in Las Vegas, it was to follow a retired Duke in a battle with aliens.
For the unrelenting optimist, pre-orders are still available.