Sony's ambitious games-as-a-service strategy falters, leading to widespread disappointment. The company's plan to launch 12 game services by 2025 has dramatically imploded, with a recent cancellation of nine projects sparking outrage among gamers.
In 2022, Sony Interactive Entertainment's then-president, Jim Ryan, unveiled the ambitious 12-service initiative, a response to the evolving gaming landscape. However, this strategy was met with skepticism from many gamers concerned about a potential shift away from beloved single-player titles. Despite assurances to the contrary, Sony has now confirmed the cancellation of nine of these twelve projects.
While Helldivers 2 found success, notable casualties include Concord, Payback, The Last of Us: Factions, Spider-Man: The Great Web, and a highly anticipated God of War title from Bluepoint Games.
Sony's Canceled Games:
- Concord (failed to meet expectations)
- God of War (Bluepoint Games)
- Bend Studio's Multiplayer Game
- The Last of Us: Factions
- Spider-Man: The Great Web (Insomniac Games)
- Twisted Metal (Firesprite)
- Unannounced Fantasy Game (London Studio)
- Payback (Bungie)
- Deviation Games' Networking Project
The cancellations represent a significant setback for Sony's foray into the games-as-a-service market. Criticism is mounting, with many suggesting Sony prioritized trends over its core strengths and legacy. Projects from Bend Studio and Bluepoint Games, among others, face considerable delays.
