2008 Nasson Entertainment Studios
Platforms: PC and Xbox 360
Crossroads was an ambitious 3D aerial-combat shooter infused with strategy elements that was once in development at the Jordan-based studio Nasson Entertainment. Pre-conceptualization began in late 2005, with dreams of soaring into the sixth console generation, specifically the Xbox 360 and PC. However, full development wouldn’t officially take off until May 2006.
Around this time, things were looking great for the developer. By February 2007, Jordan Venture Magazine had secured an early look at the project, offering a glimpse into its world and narrative:
“In the aftermath of an Apocalyptic Great War, the Earth’s environment is destroyed and the planet splits into two colonies. One colony goes searching for other habitable planets, only to discover that its preferred orb is already occupied. Thus, the voyagers find themselves in a new war. And that’s where the fun begins. If you hear allegorical echoes of regional politics, with resource scarcity, the chaos of multiple conflicts and even a hint of diplomacy, you’d be right.”
At this stage, things seemed to be aligning perfectly for Nasson Entertainment. The demo was reportedly well-received, praised for its smooth frame rate and enjoyable gameplay—all powered by their proprietary Trinigy Engine. The studio even secured a publishing deal with Roundhouse Entertainment, suggesting that Crossroads was well on its way to becoming Jordan’s breakout entry. And according to the designer Fawzi Mesmar, the game was slated to hit stores in 2008.
Then everything started falling apart. Roundhouse Entertainment abruptly shut down, leaving Nasson without a publisher and without financial lifeline for a long time. All attempts to secure a new partner failed, and Crossroads was quietly cancelled. The studio itself would close its doors in 2010.
Today, all that remains of Crossroads are a handful of concept art pieces and a lone surviving video—faint traces of a project that once aimed to put Jordanian game development on the map.
With thanks to Iyed Abbes and Evan Hanley for helping with the article.
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