Maze Theory is quietly ramping up development on a new VR project, and while it hasn’t been officially revealed, recent job listings point to something ambitious. The project, possibly called Project Xeno, appears to be a combat-focused sci-fi game built for Meta platforms.
This would be the studio’s third major VR title after working with well-known IPs like Doctor Who and Peaky Blinders. But this time, it looks like they’re working on something original—and likely more action-driven.
Job listing gives clues about setting and gameplay
The listing for a lead game designer describes the upcoming title as an “action combat VR game” set in a futuristic world. That’s already a shift from Maze Theory’s more narrative-first past projects. This one sounds like it’s aiming for physical intensity and reactive mechanics, not just storytelling.
While the details are light, the framing suggests full-scale VR movement and active combat. Think melee and ranged options, not just pointing at things or walking through dialogue trees.
Meta is onboard as the publisher
The same listing notes that the project is being developed in partnership with Meta. That’s a pretty strong indicator this will be built for Quest headsets, and probably optimized with standalone VR in mind.
Meta’s recent VR strategy has leaned toward games with replay value, kinetic movement, and tighter gameplay loops. If Maze Theory is aligning with that direction, expect something closer to Asgard’s Wrath 2 in spirit than their previous, slower-paced work.
Possible pivot from licensed to original IP
If Project Xeno is a new IP, this marks a shift for the studio. Their earlier titles leaned heavily on licensed brands with built-in fanbases. That gave them a head start in terms of audience interest but may have limited how far they could push gameplay systems. An original sci-fi setting opens more room for mechanical and visual experimentation. They’re not tied to tone, canon, or specific character arcs. That flexibility could allow them to aim for a more system-driven, game-first experience.
No release timeline yet
There’s no word on when this project will be shown or released. Based on the hiring stage, it’s likely still early in production. That said, with Meta involved, it wouldn’t be surprising if the game is lined up as a future Quest showcase, possibly for the next-gen headset cycle.
For now, it’s a signal that Maze Theory is moving beyond narrative novelty and toward something with more action weight. Whether it lands will depend on how well they handle that transition.
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