Saber Interactive is bringing back one of gaming's most iconic franchises, but not without its challenges. Stuntman: Hollywood is set to make its return at State of Play 2026, nearly two decades after the original series faded from view. The new entry aims to redefine stunt-based gameplay with modern tools and ambitions, though it faces a familiar hurdle: delivering on the promise of innovation in an increasingly competitive landscape.
The Stuntman franchise was once known for its over-the-top action sequences, where players performed death-defying stunts across a variety of environments. The original games were built on a foundation of physics-driven mechanics and high-octane set pieces, but the series has been absent from the scene since 2005. That absence is about to change, with Saber Interactive teasing a revival that leans heavily into Hollywood's obsession with spectacle.
What’s New
The new Stuntman: Hollywood will introduce a range of modern features designed to elevate the stunt-driven experience. One standout addition is the ability to perform stunts across multiple vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, and even helicopters. This expansion of movement options reflects the franchise's evolution from its roots in single-vehicle stunts to a more dynamic, multi-platform approach.
Another key detail is the game's focus on cinematic presentation. The developers are emphasizing a visual style that mimics Hollywood action films, complete with exaggerated camera angles and slow-motion replays. This isn't just about aesthetics; it's a deliberate attempt to create a gameplay loop that rewards players for executing stunts with flair and precision.
Key Details
- Multi-vehicle Stunt Chains: Players can chain together stunts across different vehicles, adding depth to the franchise's signature gameplay.
- Cinematic Camera Work: The game will feature dynamic camera angles and slow-motion replays, mimicking Hollywood action films.
- Modern Physics Engine: The underlying physics engine has been updated to handle the increased complexity of multi-vehicle stunts, though details on how this will perform in practice remain scarce.
The game's development is being handled by Saber Interactive, a studio known for its work on titles like Madden NFL and NFL Tour. While these projects have had mixed success, the team behind Stuntman: Hollywood brings a wealth of experience in sports simulation and stunt-based gameplay. However, the transition from sports to Hollywood stunts is not without its risks.
Why It Matters
The return of Stuntman: Hollywood could fill a niche in the gaming market that has grown increasingly crowded with action-oriented titles. The franchise's focus on stunt-driven gameplay offers a unique alternative to traditional first-person shooters or open-world sandboxes, but it must navigate a landscape where players expect more than just spectacle.
That’s the upside—here’s the catch: delivering on the promise of multi-vehicle stunts and cinematic presentation is no small feat. The original Stuntman series was praised for its technical execution, but it also faced criticism for repetitive gameplay loops. If the new entry doesn’t address these issues, it risks becoming a footnote in gaming history rather than a revival worth celebrating.
What to Watch Next
The game's debut at State of Play 2026 will be the first public glimpse into its development, and players should expect a mix of polished features and unanswered questions. The focus on multi-vehicle stunts is intriguing, but it remains to be seen how well the game balances technical execution with gameplay depth.
For power users, the potential for innovation in stunt-driven gameplay could make this a title worth watching. However, the franchise's history serves as a reminder that spectacle alone isn't enough. The real test will be whether Saber Interactive can translate Hollywood's love of action into a gaming experience that feels fresh and engaging, rather than just nostalgic.
