Industry sources suggest a possible 2026 release for Respawn's Star Wars Jedi 3, though studio upheaval and development challenges cast doubt on this timeline.
Recent podcast comments from Kinda Funny co-founder Tim Gettys have reignited discussion about the potential release window for Star Wars Jedi 3, the concluding chapter of Respawn Entertainment's Cal Kestis trilogy. Gettys suggested the title has a 'solid chance' of launching in 2026, aligning with several other planned Star Wars game releases. However, this optimistic projection faces significant headwinds following substantial organizational changes at Respawn.
Electronic Arts officially confirmed development of the third Jedi installment in 2022, positioning it as the finale to protagonist Cal Kestis' journey. Since then, information has been scarce while Respawn endured major disruptions. Director Stig Asmussen, who helmed both Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order (2019) and Star Wars Jedi: Survivor (2023), departed the studio in 2023. Subsequent layoffs in 2024 and 2025 directly impacted the development team, with multiple sources indicating plummeting morale following project cancellations.
The previous Jedi titles followed relatively efficient development cycles: Fallen Order shipped within four years of announcement, while Survivor released just one year after its formal showcase at Star Wars Celebration 2022. This pattern fuels speculation that Jedi 3 could maintain a similar pace. Gettys and colleagues plan to watch for updates during May's Star Wars Celebration event, potentially the next opportunity for official news.
Nevertheless, industry analysts highlight substantial obstacles to a 2026 release. Modern AAA action-adventure games typically require extensive development periods, especially those with cinematic storytelling and complex gameplay systems. Rushing production risks repeating the technical problems that plagued Jedi: Survivor at launch, where performance issues persisted despite strong sales. The loss of key creative leadership combined with reduced staffing further complicates timeline predictions.
While the upcoming Star Wars: Fate of the Old Republic generated excitement at December's Game Awards, its distant 2029 release window underscores the lengthy timelines common for major franchises. Respawn's silence since 2022, coupled with the studio's restructuring, suggests Jedi 3 remains in early-to-mid development phases. Fans hoping for Cal Kestis' final chapter may need to temper expectations as Respawn navigates these challenges while aiming to deliver a polished conclusion worthy of the series.
Source: Kinda Funny Games podcast
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