Sony cancels Fairgames live-service shooter after mixed test results

Sony has canceled Fairgames, a live-service heist game announced in 2023, according to Bloomberg and The Verge. The game was part of Sony's broader plan to expand its PlayStation live service offerings.

The cancellation follows mixed player feedback and retention results during recent tests, which fell short of Sony's goals, as detailed in an executive memo reported by Bloomberg. Additionally, challenging market conditions in the player-versus-player shooter genre contributed to the decision.

Fairgames' cancellation will not lead to job cuts; instead, developer Haven Studios, acquired by Sony in 2022, will support other PlayStation studios. This move reflects Sony's step back from some live service efforts, including canceled projects in the God of War and The Last of Us franchises and the shutdown of Concord after its launch.

Sony's live service strategy has seen some successes, such as with Helldivers 2, also available on Xbox. Other projects like Bungie's Marathon have faced challenges but continue to receive updates, and Sony is working on a live service Horizon spinoff that was recently rebooted.

The cancellation of Fairgames highlights Sony's ongoing adjustments in its approach to live service games amid a competitive and evolving market landscape.