PlayStation owner Sony has shuttered Bluepoint Games, the critically acclaimed studio responsible for the stunning remakes of Demon’s Souls and Shadow of the Colossus. The closure, confirmed by PlayStation, impacts approximately 70 employees and marks a significant shift for a studio once lauded as a key asset in preserving and revitalizing PlayStation’s classic titles.
The decision comes after a period of uncertainty for Bluepoint, following the cancellation of a live-service God of War game in January 2025, as reported by Bloomberg. Despite pitching new projects throughout last year, the studio was unable to secure funding for a new venture before Sony opted to close its doors next month. “Bluepoint Games is an incredibly talented team and their technical expertise has delivered exceptional experiences for the PlayStation community,” a PlayStation spokesperson told Bloomberg.
Founded in 2006 by former Retro Studios employees, Bluepoint Games initially focused on porting and remastering existing PlayStation titles. The studio built a strong reputation with collections like the God of War Collection, Metal Gear Solid HD Collection and Uncharted: The Nathan Drake Collection, as well as support work on titles like PlayStation All-Stars, Flower, and Titanfall. Still, it was the 2018 remake of Shadow of the Colossus and the 2020 remake of Demon’s Souls that cemented Bluepoint’s status as a leader in high-fidelity remakes.
Sony acquired Bluepoint Games in 2021, signaling an intent to leverage the studio’s expertise for future projects. Following the acquisition, Bluepoint contributed to the co-development of God of War Ragnarok, but did not release or announce any new standalone titles. The studio’s subsequent attempt to pivot towards a live-service model with a God of War game ultimately proved unsuccessful, contributing to the current outcome.
Sony’s Shifting Priorities and the Live-Service Gamble
The closure of Bluepoint Games is the latest in a series of restructuring moves by Sony as it re-evaluates its strategy in the gaming industry. Recent failures in the live-service space, including the shutdown of multiplayer shooter Concord just two weeks after its release and the closure of Firewalk Studios, the developer behind the game, appear to have influenced the decision. According to Engadget, Sony’s “mismanagement of its pivot into and out of publishing premium online multiplayer games may have played a role.”
This shift comes as Sony faces rising development costs and increased competition in the gaming market. Whereas the company continues to experiment with live-service mechanics – Guerilla Games recently announced an online co-op game set in the Horizon universe, and Bungie is preparing to release Marathon in March – the closure of Bluepoint suggests a more cautious approach to large-scale, unproven ventures.
Bluepoint’s Legacy and the Future of Remakes
Bluepoint Games leaves behind a legacy of exceptional remakes that have introduced a new generation of players to classic PlayStation experiences. The studio’s meticulous attention to detail and commitment to preserving the original vision of these games have earned them widespread critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.
The future of high-fidelity remakes within PlayStation remains uncertain. While other studios within Sony possess the technical capabilities to undertake similar projects, Bluepoint’s unique expertise and dedication to the craft will be tricky to replicate. The studio’s closure raises questions about Sony’s long-term commitment to revisiting its extensive library of classic titles.
The impact of this closure extends beyond Sony and the 70 affected employees. It signals a broader recalibration within the industry, as companies grapple with the challenges of balancing innovation with proven successes. The gaming landscape continues to evolve, and the fate of Bluepoint Games serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks and uncertainties involved in navigating this dynamic environment.
As Sony continues to refine its strategy, the industry will be watching closely to see how the company adapts to the changing demands of the market and what role remakes and remasters will play in its future plans. Share your thoughts on the closure of Bluepoint Games in the comments below.
