Sony Interactive Entertainment and PlayStation Studios Head Herman Hulst announced that it has shut down Concord developer Firewalk Studios about a year after it purchased it from ProbablyMonsters.
A screenshot from Concord (2024), Firewalk Studios
In a post to the Sony Interactive Entertainment website, Hulst wrote, ” As part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen SIE’s Studio Business, we have had to make a difficult decision relating to two of our studios – Neon Koi and Firewalk Studios.”
Speaking specifically to Firewalk Studios, he said, “Regarding Firewalk, as announced in early September (An Important Update on Concord), certain aspects of Concord were exceptional, but others did not land with enough players, and as a result we took the game offline. We have spent considerable time these past few months exploring all our options. After much thought, we have determined the best path forward is to permanently sunset the game and close the studio. I want to thank all of Firewalk for their craftsmanship, creative spirit and dedication.”
A screenshot from Concord (2024), Firewalk Studios
Hulst then added, “The PvP first person shooter genre is a competitive space that’s continuously evolving, and unfortunately, we did not hit our targets with this title. We will take the lessons learned from Concord and continue to advance our live service capabilities to deliver future growth in this area.”
“I know none of this is easy news to hear, particularly with colleagues and friends departing SIE. Both decisions were given serious thought, and ultimately, we feel they are the right ones to strengthen the organization,” Hulst continued. “Neon Koi and Firewalk were home to many talented individuals, and we will work to find placement for some of those impacted within our global community of studios where possible.”
A screenshot of the character Bazz in Concord (2024), Firewalk Studios
Hulst then concluded, “I am a big believer in the benefits of embracing creative experimentation and developing new IP. However, growing through sustainable financials, especially in a challenged economic environment is critical.”
“While today is a difficult day, there is much to look forward to in the months ahead from the Studio Business Group and our teams. I remain confident that we are building a resilient and capable organization driven by creating unforgettable entertainment experiences for our players,” he finished.
A screenshot from Concord (2024), Firewalk Studios
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The closure of Firewalk Studios comes after Concord Game Director Ryan Ellis announced the game was going to be taken offline less than two weeks after the game’s release.”
Ellis wrote at the same time, “At this time, we have decided to take the game offline beginning September 6, 2024, and explore options, including those that will better reach our players.”
He also shared that the company will be offering full refunds, “While we determine the best path ahead, Concord sales will cease immediately and we will begin to offer a full refund for all gamers who have purchased the game for PS5 or PC. If you purchased the game for PlayStation 5 from the PlayStation Store or PlayStation Direct, a refund will be issued back to your original payment method.”
A screenshot from Concord (2024), Firewalk Studios
While the game was available to play it only hit a peak concurrent of just 697 on Steam.
Concord Steam DB concurrent player data
What do you make of PlayStation shutting Concord developer Firewalk Studios down?
NEXT: ‘Concord’ Insider Believes Original Parent Company Will Not Survive Game’s Catastrophic Failure
