Sony Shuts Down Neon Koi and Firewalk Studios
Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) has made a significant strategic shift, announcing the closure of two of its studios: Neon Koi and Firewalk Studios. This decision comes as part of a broader effort to prioritise core PlayStation platforms and online experiences while scaling back its ambitions in the mobile gaming market.
Neon Koi, a relatively young studio, was working on a mobile action game that has now been cancelled. The closure of Neon Koi underscores the challenges Sony faces in navigating the highly competitive mobile gaming landscape. While mobile gaming remains a priority for the company, Sony is now focusing on titles that align with its PlayStation Studios pedigree and have the potential to reach a global audience.
Firewalk Studios, known for its recently released PvP first-person shooter Concord, will also be shutting down. Despite the studio’s efforts, Concord failed to meet player expectations and achieve its target goals. Sony attributes this to the highly competitive nature of the PvP shooter genre and the constant evolution of player preferences.
While Sony acknowledges the importance of creative experimentation and new IP development, the company is prioritising financial sustainability, especially in the current economic climate. The decision to close these studios reflects the evolving landscape of the gaming industry, where companies must make tough choices to ensure long-term success.
