Sony Cancels Two More PlayStation live-service Projects Amid Strategy Shift

Sony has officially canceled two unannounced live-service game projects developed by Bend Studio and Bluepoint Games, signaling a shift away from its heavy investment in live-service titles. The company made the decision following a recent internal review, opting to scale back on high-risk ventures that rely on microtransactions and ongoing player engagement.

Live-service games are designed to generate recurring revenue through in-game purchases and ongoing content updates. While potentially lucrative, these projects have high failure rates, and Sony has experienced mixed results in recent years. Notably, Helldivers II was a success in 2024, but Concord was removed from sale less than two weeks after release, and several other live-service games were canceled, including one based on the Spider-Man franchise.

Despite the cancellations, Sony has stated that neither Bend Studio nor Bluepoint will be closed. Both studios are known for their success with critically acclaimed titles. Bend Studio developed Days Gone, while Bluepoint is known for its remakes, including Demon’s Souls. Sony has reassured employees that it will work closely with the studios to determine their next projects and minimize business disruptions.

This move is part of a broader industry trend as companies reassess their reliance on live-service models due to slower growth and the high cost of failure. The gaming industry as a whole has seen significant job cuts in recent years, and Sony’s decision reflects these broader market shifts.

While the cancellations may be disappointing for fans, Sony remains committed to producing high-quality single-player games. The company’s focus will continue to be on narrative-driven experiences, alongside its online offerings. Moving forward, Sony plans to refine its approach to live-service games, ensuring better sustainability and alignment with player expectations.

The canceled projects are a reflection of Sony’s changing priorities in an evolving gaming landscape. Both Bend and Bluepoint now face the challenge of determining their next steps, with the company offering support to ensure minimal impact on jobs and development. The future of PlayStation’s game portfolio will likely remain a balance of online and single-player titles.