After years of shining in the fast-paced and stylized single-player genre, PlatinumGames seems to be looking to change tack. The studio behind NieR is currently recruiting for a new online action game. And this project could well mark a new attempt at the game-as-a-service genre. A risky bet? Yes. And fans aren't hiding their doubts.
An open-world multiplayer game for NieR developers?
The information comes from a job offer published by the studio behind NieR. PlatinumGames is looking for an experienced game designer, particularly in online action games and "open-field games." In other words: open world, multiplayer, and probably designed to last over time. We're not talking about a small co-op mode or an online bonus. Everything suggests that this is the heart of the project. In short, a true game-as-a-service, similar to what we see at Ubisoft or Bungie.
If this announcement is causing so much talk, it's because the studio has already tried the live service adventure. And the experience has left its mark. Babylon's Fall, released in 2022, had all the ingredients of the modern economic model: cooperation, lootable equipment, regular updates... except that the game was hollow, poorly finished, and quickly deserted. It was closed in less than a year. So going back in this direction today seems surprising. Or, for some, downright worrying. NieR's success is starting to... Being a little far away...
A studio in full mutation
This choice comes in a context of major changes at PlatinumGames (NieR). Several iconic developers have left the studio, including Hideki Kamiya, the historic co-founder. According to some rumors, other projects have been canceled or put on hold, such as Project GG or Astral Chain 2. Faced with these uncertainties, the game-as-a-service seems to be seen as a lifeline. A way to ensure regular revenue in an increasingly unstable industry.
Obviously, nothing says that this future game will be a failure. PlatinumGames, which nevertheless gave birth to NieR, still has talent. And the concept of a well-thought-out online action game, with a real Platinum combat system, could appeal to... condition of avoiding the pitfalls of the past. But in a market saturated with live service games, many of which don't last more than a year, the margin for error is slim. And many fans were hoping for a return to their roots, with strong, memorable single-player titles.
Source: PlatiniumGames
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