Sony CEO Reaffirms Commitment to Live Service Games Amid Criticism and Delays
June 13, 2025
During a business presentation on June 13, 2025, Sony CEO Hermen Hulst reaffirmed the company's commitment to a 'diverse and resilient' portfolio of live service games, including the anticipated titles Marathon and Fairgames.
Despite facing criticism from players, PlayStation remains dedicated to developing live service games, as emphasized by Hulst.
Hulst confirmed that Sony is continuing to invest in new live service games, even after the setbacks experienced with the title Concord.
Marathon, which Hulst described as 'innovative and bold,' has faced significant issues, including an 80% drop in its closed alpha player base due to criticism over its locked three-player format and absence of a solo mode.
Fairgames, a co-operative heist game, has encountered delays following the departure of studio founder Jade Raymond and has not been extensively showcased since its initial reveal.
Initially expected to release in 2025, Fairgames is now likely delayed until 2026 due to developmental concerns.
Hulst described Concord as 'insufficiently differentiated' in a competitive gaming landscape, indicating that lessons have been learned from its failure.
Despite high-profile failures in live service games, including the cancellation of several projects, Sony aims to build on the success of titles like Helldivers 2 and Destiny 2.
Hulst praised Helldivers 2 as a 'resounding critical and commercial success,' highlighting its ability to engage a passionate community and achieve significant sales.
Hulst stated that future live service titles, such as Marathon, are on track and will incorporate lessons learned from the failures of Concord.
To improve outcomes, Sony has implemented a more rigorous validation process to assess the creative and commercial potential of its games before launch.
Originally aiming to release 12 live service games by March 2026, Sony has reduced this goal to six due to ongoing challenges in the live service sector.
Summary based on 4 sources
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Sources

GameSpot • Jun 13, 2025
Sony Re-Commits To Live-Service Games, Says Bungie's Marathon Won't Suffer Concord's Fate
Game Rant • Jun 13, 2025
PlayStation Doubles Down on Live Service Plans
