Sony's PlayStation has faced challenges with its live-service strategy, leading to cancellations and delays of multiple high-profile titles like Concord and a Strange Twisted Metal project. Despite an ambitious plan initiated in 2022 to shift focus towards live-service games, recent admissions by CFO Lin Tao highlighted that progress hasn't been smooth, especially after the acquisition of Bungie, which is set to have reduced independence. Investors are concerned about the trajectory of this approach within the gaming market, particularly after the poor reception of titles such as Marathon. However, Tao emphasized a long-term vision that includes successful live-service games such as Destiny 2, Helldivers 2, and Gran Turismo 7.
What is the current status of PlayStation’s live-service strategy?PlayStation's live-service strategy is currently facing significant challenges with multiple cancellations, delays, and lackluster reception of games like Concord and Marathon. CFO Lin Tao acknowledged that the transition to live-service models is not proceeding as planned, prompting concerns from investors.
Background information on Bungie includes its history as a prominent game developer known for the Halo series, before shifting its focus to the Destiny franchise. Acquired by Sony in 2022, Bungie's future now heavily intersects with PlayStation's evolving plans for the live-service landscape in gaming, producing mixed results and ongoing management challenges.
Alex Riverton
Alex Riverton is a seasoned journalist with over a decade of experience in the gaming industry. Known for their in-depth analysis and hands-on previews, Alex has built a reputation for insightful commentary on gameplay mechanics and storytelling in videogames.
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Sony’s live-service pivot feels like watching a speedrunner fumble the early game—rough start, but they’ve got the skill and resources to recover. Let’s hope they don’t pull a No Man’s Sky and need years to stick the landing.
Live-service games are a tough nut to crack, and even Sony’s hitting some bumps—guess not every studio can pull off a Helldivers 2. Still, if anyone can course-correct with big IPs like Destiny in their pocket, it’s them.