Concord, a recent video game, has garnered attention this week due to its sudden decision to go offline just 11 days after its launch, as the developers aim to “explore options” for better engaging with players. Despite the potential financial backing from Sony, which acquired Firewalk Studios in April, the game has struggled, with current player counts dwindling to just 56 after peaking at 697 at launch. The industry has seen numerous games launch poorly, but Concord’s rapid decline is particularly notable.
Critics point to various factors contributing to the game’s poor reception, including a lackluster aesthetic, uninspiring combat, and a retail price that felt out of touch with a market increasingly dominated by free-to-play titles. Additionally, its minimal marketing support suggested that even Sony may have had reservations about its success.
Concerns about the viability of live service models have emerged, but what’s apparent is the growing challenge for new entrants to attract players away from established favorites like Apex Legends and Rainbow Six Siege. The competitive landscape of online player-versus-player shooters has become increasingly fierce, making it difficult for newcomers to gain traction.
The future of another project from Bungie’s stable, Marathon, appears uncertain in light of these developments. Announced in May 2023 as an extraction shooter, Marathon has undergone significant changes, including senior personnel shifts and delays in its release timeline, which is now set for 2025. Reports have indicated morale issues at Bungie following layoffs and concerns about the game’s direction.
While Marathon’s premise seems promising, it faces an uphill battle to capture players’ attention, especially given the vocal dissatisfaction among Destiny 2 fans who feel they have lost resources and talent to Marathon’s development. Historically, Bungie has thrived under pressure, but the challenges facing both Concord and Marathon could prompt serious discussions within Sony about the future of its investments in live service games.