Sony's stunning decision to shut down Concord barely two weeks after its release has generated a frenzy among gamers. With the game slated to go dark on September 6, users are rushing to claim the coveted Platinum trophy before it's too late. The first-person hero shooter, created by Firewalk Studios, had a difficult start, with a low player count and failing to make the impression Sony hoped for. With the time ticking, players are brainstorming tactics to acquire as many experience points (XP) as possible.
One of the quickest ways to get XP in Concord is via Rivalry. Normally, this mode has two teams of five players battle it out in best-of-seven single-life rounds. However, in an effort to expedite the process, players have begun tossing matches by running off platforms to their deaths as soon as the round begins. This strategy allows the battle to be completed in minutes, giving players more XP in a shorter period of time. While this strategy reduces players' victory rates, it is viewed as a necessary sacrifice given the game's eventual closure.
The abrupt decision to halt Concord's career has sparked several discussions among the gaming world. Although some features of the game resonated with select players, the general reception was tepid at best. Analysts believe that Concord sold as little as 25,000 units, with a low, high concurrent player count of 697 on Steam. These figures offer a bleak picture of a game that has been in development for an astonishing eight years.
Concord's collapse raises concerns about the future of Sony's other live service games. Titles such as Bungie's Marathon and Haven's Fairgame are now under increasing scrutiny as the corporation struggles to prevent another failure. Sony had previously committed to releasing six of twelve live service games under development, but with one already canceled and Concord closed, the route forward is questionable.
Concord's cancellation is a letdown for Firewalk Studios, who had hoped it would be a game changer. The game's creative concepts and years of hard work did not lead to success. As the gaming community says goodbye to Concord, concerns remain about what went wrong and how other projects may avoid a similar fate.