Thomas Mahler, the head of Moon Studios, has officially denied rumors circulating online about the development of a third installment in the beloved Ori series. The game developer took to social media to address the speculation directly, categorically dismissing the reports as complete nonsense. This statement comes as a disappointment to many fans who had hoped that the critically acclaimed franchise would continue with another magical adventure through the enchanted forests that captured the hearts of millions of players worldwide.
The Ori franchise has been one of the most celebrated indie gaming series of the past decade, beginning with Ori and the Blind Forest in 2015 and followed by its sequel, Ori and the Will of the Wisps, in 2020. Both games were published by Xbox Game Studios and received universal acclaim for their stunning hand-painted artwork, emotionally powerful storytelling, and challenging yet rewarding Metroidvania-style gameplay. The original title won multiple awards and established Moon Studios as a premier developer in the action-platformer genre.
The Legacy of the Ori Franchise
Ori and the Blind Forest introduced players to the titular spirit creature who must navigate through a dying forest to restore balance and life to the land. The game was praised for its fluid movement mechanics, precise platforming challenges, and a musical score composed by Gareth Coker that many consider among the finest in gaming history. The sequel expanded upon every aspect of its predecessor, introducing new combat mechanics, a larger world to explore, and an even more emotionally resonant narrative that brought many players to tears by its conclusion.
The Will of the Wisps was widely considered a masterpiece upon release, earning near-perfect review scores and winning numerous Game of the Year awards from various publications. The game sold exceptionally well and cemented the franchise’s place in gaming history. Given this success, it’s understandable why fans would eagerly anticipate news of a potential third entry. However, Mahler’s definitive statement suggests that Moon Studios has moved on to other creative endeavors.
Moon Studios Looking Toward New Horizons
Following the completion of Ori and the Will of the Wisps, Moon Studios announced that they would be departing from the franchise to pursue new creative directions. The studio has been working on a completely different project called No Rest for the Wicked, an action role-playing game that represents a significant departure from the platforming adventures that made them famous. This new title features a darker, more mature aesthetic and focuses on combat-heavy gameplay in a medieval fantasy setting.
Industry analysts suggest that Mahler’s firm denial of Ori 3 development aligns with the studio’s previously stated intentions to explore new creative territory. While the Ori series concluded on a definitive narrative note, some fans have continued to hope for spin-offs, prequels, or continuation of the story through different characters. These hopes appear to have fueled the recent rumors that Mahler has now categorically rejected.
The situation highlights the challenges faced by successful game developers who must balance fan expectations with their own creative ambitions. Moon Studios clearly views the Ori chapter as complete, preferring to channel their talents into fresh intellectual properties rather than returning to familiar ground. For now, fans of the franchise will need to content themselves with the two existing masterpieces while keeping an eye on whatever Moon Studios creates next.
Expert Opinion: While fans may be disappointed by this definitive closure on Ori 3, Moon Studios’ decision to move forward with new projects is a healthy sign for the gaming industry. Studios that continually innovate rather than rely on sequels often produce more groundbreaking work. The Ori franchise ended on a complete narrative arc, and forcing additional entries could diminish the artistic integrity that made the original games so memorable.
