Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) has officially shut down Firewalk Studios, the developer known for its work on the multiplayer game project Concord, and has permanently canceled the game. Additionally, Sony has closed Neon Koi, a mobile game developer it acquired as part of its broader push into live-service gaming. The decision marks a significant shift in Sony’s approach to its development portfolio as it focuses resources on select projects and re-evaluates its live-service strategy.
Firewalk Studios, which was acquired by Sony in 2023 and was developing Concord as part of Sony’s lineup of upcoming live-service games, will no longer continue production on the title. Concord, a multiplayer first-person shooter, was intended to become a flagship title for PlayStation, adding diversity to Sony’s predominantly single-player game lineup. However, with production ending, Sony’s plans for the game have shifted as part of a broader restructuring effort.
In a statement, Sony Interactive Entertainment explained that the decision to close Firewalk and Neon Koi reflects “a strategic realignment of resources to focus on other live-service projects with greater alignment to our goals.” While specifics of Sony’s new approach remain under wraps, the company has made it clear it is refining its focus, potentially consolidating resources around higher-profile projects in development.
Firewalk Studios’ closure underscores Sony’s shift within the competitive landscape of live-service gaming, where rapid adaptation to market demands is often required. Neon Koi, which focused on mobile gaming, was also impacted by the restructure, suggesting that Sony is pulling back on mobile investments in favor of bolstering its console and core gaming platforms. The dual closure highlights Sony’s intention to streamline its studios and prioritize projects with proven market potential or closer ties to its core portfolio.
With Firewalk and Neon Koi now closed, Sony’s immediate future in live-service gaming and mobile projects may shift, allowing for a more concentrated investment in a handful of select titles.