Bandai Namco has announced the cancellation of the global release of Blue Protocol, alongside the closure of its Japanese servers in 2025. This decision follows the game's underperformance and inability to meet player expectations. Let's delve into the details.
Blue Protocol: Global Release Canceled, Japan Servers Shutting Down
Player Compensation and Final Updates
Bandai Namco's official statement cites the inability to maintain a satisfactory service as the reason for the shutdown, scheduled for January 18, 2025. Consequently, the planned global launch in partnership with Amazon Games is canceled. The company expressed regret over the situation and acknowledged their failure to meet the anticipated standards.
To compensate players, Bandai Namco will provide 5,000 Rose Orbs monthly (starting September 2024) and 250 Rose Orbs daily until the game's closure. Rose Orb purchases and refunds will cease. Additionally, all players will receive free access to the Season Pass, beginning with Season 9, and the final update (Chapter 7) is slated for December 18, 2024.
Launched in June 2023, Blue Protocol initially attracted significant attention, boasting over 200,000 concurrent players. However, early server issues and subsequent player dissatisfaction led to a rapid decline in its player base. This underperformance, previously hinted at in Bandai Namco's March 2024 financial report, ultimately resulted in the decision to terminate service. Despite initial promise, the game failed to meet financial projections and sustain player engagement.
