Sony Interactive Entertainment seems to be navigating a challenging path with its focus on multiplayer live-service games. The PlayStation 5 enjoyed immense success with the launch of Helldivers 2, a hit in the gaming community. However, the triumph was somewhat overshadowed by the disappointing performance of Concord. Even with these setbacks, Sony appears undeterred and is pressing forward into the live-service game arena, as indicated by a recent job opening.
In an interesting turn of events, a job listing from PlayStation Studios hints at the development of a fresh, AAA original IP, which will likely be a cooperative game. As picked up by Tech4Gamers, a job posting for a PlayStation Game Systems Designer at their new Los Angeles studio notes they are on the hunt to “create the next groundbreaking AAA original IP.” While earlier listings from this studio hinted at a similar ambition, this one offers a sneak peek into the game’s nature.
Among the standard qualifications, a particular requirement stands out. The posting mentions the need for “experience with and knowledge of cooperative multiplayer design principles and ideals.” This clearly suggests that the LA-based studio is crafting a cooperative multiplayer game of the caliber of its existing major franchises. Beyond this intriguing detail, not much else has been revealed about the project.
Back in January, a comparable job ad confirmed the existence of this new PlayStation studio. There’s buzzing speculation that Jason Blundell, a former Call of Duty developer, is at the helm following the closure of Deviation Games in 2023. After the shutdown, several team members revealed they had joined PlayStation under Blundell’s leadership.
In light of Concord’s rocky start, it’s reported that Sony is now overhauling its approach to live-service games. As per insights from industry insider Jeff Grubb, the company is reevaluating its live-service offerings. Consequently, it has shelved a few projects, including a God of War multiplayer game by Bluepoint Games, marking a significant shift in their strategy.
