by Sony closes Neon Koi and Firewalk studios.
In an update to Sony employees, Hermen Hulst, CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment’s Studio Business Group, said that after “the evaluation[ing] our game portfolio and project status to ensure we meet short- and long-term business priorities”, he was making the “difficult decision” to close Neon Koi and Firewalk Studios.
In the case of the former, Hulst said that while “mobile remains a priority growth area for the studio sector,” the company needed to “focus on titles that fit the pedigree of PlayStation Studios and have the potential to reach more players around the world. “
For Firewalk, Hulst said that Sony had “spent a lot of time over the last few months exploring all of our options”, and that it had “determined that the best path forward was to permanently end the game and shut down the studio.” .
It’s unclear exactly how many people will be affected by the closures, but Firewalk says it employs between 51 and 200 people on LinkedIn, and Neon Koi says it employs between 11 and 50.
“I know this is not easy news to hear, especially with colleagues and friends leaving SIE,” Hulst added. “Both decisions were carefully considered and, ultimately, we believe they are the right ones to strengthen the organization.
“Neon Koi and Firewalk were home to many talented people, and we will work to find placement for some of those affected within our global studio community where possible.
“Even though today is a difficult day, there is much to look forward to in the months ahead from the Studio Business Group and our teams,” Hulst concluded.
“I remain confident that we are building a resilient and competent organization driven by creating unforgettable entertainment experiences for our players.”
Following the closure of Concord, GamesIndustry.biz spoke to experts about the many factors behind this decision and how other live service games can avoid a similar fate.
