From 1996 to 2005, no new "Metal Max" games were added to the series. After "Metal Max 2" was released, Data East was asked about the third title but no answer was given by the company. Later the company went through troubles brought by management issues. Some companies also provided offers for developing a Game Boy title. During this period, the Japanese magazine "Super Logo Design" rumoured that Crea-Tech would publish "Metal Max 3: Heart of Gold" for the PlayStation. In a 2010 developer meeting, it was said that a PlayStation "Metal Max 3" was conceived, but was given up due to development budget shortage.