Sony is reportedly rebooting its live-service game set in the Horizon universe following negative player feedback during internal tests. The project, previously known only through leaks and speculation, is said to be undergoing a substantial overhaul, according to a report from Kotaku.
The game, which was envisioned as a cooperative multiplayer experience, has faced internal challenges that have prompted this significant shift in development strategy. While details remain scarce, sources familiar with the project suggest that the game did not perform well in playtesting phases, leading to the decision to pivot.
This move signals a potential reassessment of Sony's approach to live-service titles, especially in the wake of other games in the genre struggling to maintain player engagement. The Horizon franchise, known for its acclaimed single-player installments like Horizon Zero Dawn and Horizon Forbidden West, is venturing into new territory with this multiplayer effort.
Details about the original concept or the specifics of the reboot are not yet public. It is unclear how these changes will affect the game's overall direction, release timeline, or its connection to the established lore of the Horizon series. The decision to press reset on a project of this scale highlights the risks and complexities associated with developing and launching live-service games in the current market.
Further information is expected to emerge as development progresses or if Sony decides to make an official announcement regarding the status of the Horizon multiplayer game. The franchise's established player base will likely be watching closely for any updates on this ambitious undertaking.