Bend Studio Moves Forward with New AAA Project After Days Gone 2 Cancellation
Sony's Bend Studio is actively hiring for its next major triple-A console game, marking a significant shift following recent layoffs and the cancellation of a live service project. This development comes after Sony axed two live service games last year, including one from Bluepoint Games, which was subsequently shut down, and another from Bend Studio itself.
The studio behind the cult favorite Days Gone appears poised to continue its legacy with a fresh endeavor. According to job listings on the PlayStation careers website, Bend Studio is seeking an Audio Director and Producer to contribute to its "next high-profile AAA console title." The description emphasizes the need for candidates with "an affinity" towards "realistic, real-world audio designs," hinting at a game grounded in reality rather than fantasy.
Studio History and Speculation on New Direction
Bend Studio has a storied history with titles like the Syphon Filter series, Uncharted: Golden Abyss, and Days Gone, all of which featured real-world settings. The developer has previously confirmed that a sequel to Days Gone is not in the works, and the last Syphon Filter installment debuted on the PSP in 2007, with little current demand for a reboot.
This suggests the new project will likely be an original intellectual property (IP), potentially incorporating elements from the scrapped live service game. Leaks from 2024 indicated that the cancelled project was a military-themed shooter, which could influence the studio's upcoming creation.
Recent Challenges and Strategic Shifts
In June of last year, Bend Studio underwent layoffs affecting approximately one-third of its employees. Sony described this move as a "strategic change" to better position the studio for long-term success as it transitions to its next project. A company spokesperson stated, "This decision was not made lightly, and we are extremely grateful for the meaningful contributions of all those impacted. Bend Studio has been a valued part of PlayStation Studios for decades, and we remain confident in its future and creative direction."
The timeline for the new game points toward a release for Sony's anticipated PlayStation 6, or possibly a cross-generation title available on both PlayStation 5 and the next console. While it remains unclear if the PlayStation 6 launch will be impacted by memory shortages, industry expectations currently target a late 2027 release date.
This recruitment drive signals Bend Studio's resilience and commitment to delivering high-quality gaming experiences, even amid industry turbulence. Fans and industry watchers will be keenly observing for further details as development progresses.
