Sony has indeed closed both Neon Koi and Firewalk Studios. This decision was announced on October 29, 2024, in an internal email from Hermen Hulst, CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment's Studio Business Group.
Key points:
1. Neon Koi closure:
- The studio was focused on mobile game development.
- Its mobile action game project has been canceled.
- Sony is re-evaluating its mobile gaming strategy to align with PlayStation Studios' pedigree.
2. Firewalk Studios closure:
- Follows the shutdown of their game "Concord" in early September 2024.
- "Concord" failed to meet player expectations in the competitive PvP first-person shooter genre.
- The game has been permanently sunset.
Sony cited the need to strengthen its Studio Business and focus on projects that meet near and long-term business priorities. The company will attempt to find placements for some affected employees within their global community of studios.
This move reflects Sony's efforts to refine its strategy in expanding beyond PlayStation devices and developing engaging online experiences, while also recognizing when projects fall short of meeting player expectations.
An Update from PlayStation Studios
*Below is an internal email from Hermen Hulst, CEO, Studio Business Group, Sony Interactive Entertainment distributed today to SIE employees. ********************************************************************************** Dear Team, Today, I want to share some important updates from Sony...
sonyinteractive.com
