The original creator of the James Pond intellectual property has publicly voiced harsh criticism against the game studio currently developing its next installment. While the iconic franchise, which first debuted on the Sega Genesis in the US, is set to receive a new title after over a decade, the series' creator appears deeply dissatisfied with its direction.

Originally launching in 1990 as a platformer for Amiga and Atari ST in Europe before migrating to Sega Genesis, James Pond saw two sequels by 1993 before fading into obscurity. The IP eventually changed hands to Gameware Europe following Sony's acquisition of original publisher Millennium Interactive.

Despite Gameware Europe owning the rights for twenty years, Chris Sorrell, the franchise's original creator, has expressed vehement disapproval of their handling. In a recent interview with Time Extension regarding James Pond and the Rogue AI, Sorrell didn't mince words: "I hate almost everything they do with a passion, particularly after they involved me in their disastrous Kickstarter campaign. I regret allowing my name to be associated with their operation."

Sorrell, renowned for directing MediEvil, takes particular issue with several aspects of Gameware's approach. While acknowledging some visual elements appear amusing, he questions the studio's design capabilities, suggesting the new entry seems technologically stagnant compared to the 34-year-old original. His most scathing criticism, however, targets Gameware's apparent use of AI technology.

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Sorrell highlights inconsistencies in promotional artwork shared across Gameware's social channels, noting significant deviations from the original character design. More troubling are the studio's advertising materials featuring AI-generated images bearing no relation to actual gameplay - including bizarre anatomical errors like melting fingers and generic Pixar-style characters.

With no creative control over the franchise he originated, Sorrell has largely avoided discussing James Pond in recent years. As Gameware Europe continues development without announcing a release date, fans await to see whether the studio can overcome these controversies to deliver a worthy addition to the classic series.