# Bend Studio Encounters Challenges but Maintains Hope for the Future
Bend Studio, the creators of the beloved *Days Gone*, has encountered a tough week due to the cancellation of two significant projects under Sony’s management. In spite of these challenges, the studio’s leadership and its community remain optimistic, sending out a clear message: Bend Studio is by no means finished.
## A Tough Week for Bend Studio
Sony recently revealed the cancellation of two key game ventures: a multiplayer game set in the *God of War* universe and a yet-unnamed live-service game from Bend Studio. This news emerges amid wider unrest in the gaming scene, with Sony struggling to carve out a niche in the increasingly competitive live-service and multiplayer domain.
While these cancellations represent a significant setback for Bend Studio, there is a silver lining: no job losses have been reported, and the studio remains whole. In an industry where project cancellations frequently lead to layoffs, this is an uncommon and reassuring outcome.
Kevin McAllister, Bend Studio’s community manager, took to social media to express gratitude to fans for their support during this tough period. His hopeful tone reassured the community that the team is dedicated to crafting innovative and engaging projects. “We’re still working on cool stuff,” McAllister tweeted, a message that has connected with fans eager to witness the studio’s next moves.
## Sony’s Trials in the Live-Service Arena
The cancellations at Bend Studio reflect a larger trend for Sony, which has struggled with its live-service goals. The development of *The Last of Us Online* was put on hold, while the live-service shooter *Concord* was withdrawn shortly after its launch. Furthermore, the *Destiny* spin-off *Payback* seems to have been silently scrapped.
Sony’s difficulties in this arena underscore the challenges of contending with established live-service juggernauts like *Fortnite*, *Apex Legends*, and *Call of Duty: Warzone*. Although the company has heavily invested in broadening its multiplayer offerings, these setbacks indicate that its real strength may still lie in traditional single-player games.
## A Possible Return to *Days Gone*
With the cancellation of the live-service project, speculation is growing that Bend Studio may redirect its focus back to its strengths: single-player experiences. This resurgence of interest has rekindled hopes for a sequel to *Days Gone*, the studio’s 2019 open-world zombie adventure.
Despite its mixed critical response upon release, *Days Gone* has since developed a loyal following, with many fans advocating for a continuation. However, the path to a sequel has been fraught with difficulty. Former game directors Jeff Ross and John Garvin departed Bend Studio after *Days Gone* launched, reportedly due to creative disagreements concerning a potential sequel’s direction. Now, with the studio’s live-service initiative off the table, the timing could be right for *Days Gone 2* to advance.
While no official announcements have been issued, fans hold out hope that Bend Studio will capitalize on this chance to re-explore the world of Deacon St. John. However, even if development began at this moment, it would likely take several years for a sequel to be ready for launch.
## A Message of Compassion and Strength
The gaming community has come together to support Bend Studio during this trying moment. John Garvin, one of the former directors of *Days Gone*, conveyed a heartfelt message on social media, stressing the human aspect of such decisions. “Regardless of what you think of GAAS [Games as a Service] or Sony’s first-party direction, this is a time for empathy… people’s lives are affected by decisions like this… developers, their families, their careers… I wish for the best,” Garvin wrote.
His remarks remind us that behind every video game are teams of dedicated developers whose livelihoods hinge on the success of their efforts. While the industry often experiences setbacks, the resilience and optimism demonstrated by Bend Studio and its supporters highlight the strength of the gaming community.
## Looking Forward
While the future remains unclear, one thing is evident: Bend Studio is not backing down. Whether it involves a sequel to *Days Gone* or an entirely new endeavor, the team is resolute in pushing boundaries and delivering unforgettable gaming experiences.
In the meantime, fans of Sony’s single-player offerings have much to anticipate. *Ghost of Yotei*, the highly awaited sequel to *Ghost of Tsushima*, is slated for release later this year, promising yet another thrilling adventure in the tradition of Sony’s finest storytelling.
As the gaming industry continues its evolution, Bend Studio’s journey underscores both the challenges and victories inherent in creating art within a constantly shifting environment. For now, fans can find solace in McAllister’s words: Bend Studio is still working on “cool stuff,” and the best may still be to come.