Disney garages Pure 2?

As spotted by Superannuation, the online resume of a former Black Rock Studios artist states that Disney scuttled plans to publish Pure 2 on the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. The artist, who accordingly worked on the project in 2008, posted a number of shots along with his resume to advertise his work, including concept shots of two different ATVs seen from various angles for Pure 2.

Pure met a strong critical reception upon its release for the Xbox 360, PS3, and PC in September 2008. However, the game's retail performance was less impressive, with the title shifting just shy of 300,000 units across all platforms in the US through June, according to the NPD Group. Black Rock Studios--known as Climax Racing before Disney purchased the UK outfit in 2006--is currently at work on Split/Second, a cinematic racer due for the Xbox 360, PS3, and PC in early 2010.

Like many others within the game industry, Disney has been feeling the impact of the global economic downturn. In January, the publisher trimmed headcount at Propaganda Games, which developed 2008's Turok revival. At the same time, Disney consolidated its Avalanche Software and Fall Line Studios locations, which resulted in more staff reductions.

The official story: Disney Interactive Studios had not responded to requests for comment as of press time.

Bogus or not bogus?: Likely not bogus that Disney halted development on Pure 2. However, with Split/Second speeding toward release early next year, there's nothing stopping Black Rock Studios from returning to the franchise in the future.