PlayStation Removes Concord Game Two Weeks After Launch

PlayStation has decided to discontinue its online first-person shooter game, Concord, less than two weeks after its launch. The game debuted on August 23 but will be taken offline starting September 6, 2024, following a surge of negative feedback from players, according to game director Ryan Ellis in a blog post released on Tuesday.

In his statement, Ellis acknowledged that while certain elements of Concord resonated with players, other components did not meet the expectations set by the initial launch. “Therefore, 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 explained.

For those who purchased Concord, full refunds will be provided. Sales of the game have already stopped as developers seek the best path forward.

According to Ellis’ blog post, gamers who bought the game will receive a full refund, no matter where or how they made their purchase. However, players will immediately lose access to Concord upon receiving their refunds.

For those who acquired the game through digital platforms like Steam and the Epic Games Store, refunds should be processed in the coming days, and players can expect a confirmation once their refund has been completed.

Customers who purchased physical copies of the game from retail outlets outside of PlayStation are advised to contact the retailer directly for their refund, as stated by Ellis.

The failure of Concord can be attributed to several factors, including poor sales performance. Reports indicate the game peaked at just 697 concurrent players, a troubling figure for a title associated with Sony Interactive Entertainment.

Critics have suggested that the game’s $40 price tag may have hindered its success, especially given that many competing hero shooter games are offered for free. Forbes video game critic Paul Tassi pointed out the overwhelming competition within the hero shooter genre as a significant challenge. Established games like Overwatch and Valorant have made it difficult for new contenders to gain traction.

Tassi also criticized the character designs and visual aesthetics of Concord, as well as its ineffective marketing strategy. He argued that these issues contributed to the game’s inability to resonate with a broader audience.

“It’s clear the concept and execution for Concord did almost everything possibly wrong from start to finish,” he remarked, reflecting on the game’s challenges.

As PlayStation looks to address the feedback and explore future possibilities for Concord, this early termination is a notable moment for the gaming giant, particularly in a market heavily saturated with first-person shooters.

This turn of events serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of the gaming industry and the high expectations consumers hold for new releases. PlayStation’s response indicates a willingness to listen to player feedback and adjust accordingly moving forward.