Bandai Namco's Blue Protocol, slated for a global launch via Amazon Games, has been canceled. The Japanese servers, which launched in June 2023, will also shut down on January 18, 2025. This decision follows the game's failure to meet player expectations and financial targets.
Blue Protocol's Demise: Global Release and Japan Server Shutdown
Player Compensation and Final Updates
Bandai Namco cited an inability to deliver a satisfactory service as the reason for the closure. The company expressed regret for the cancellation, highlighting their disappointment in ending the partnership with Amazon Games for the global release.
To compensate players, Bandai Namco will provide 5,000 Rose Orbs monthly (starting September 2024) and 250 Rose Orbs daily until the server closure. Rose Orb purchases and refunds will be discontinued. Additionally, the Season 9 pass will be free, and a final update (Chapter 7) is scheduled for December 18, 2024.
The game's initial launch in Japan saw over 200,000 concurrent players, but this success was short-lived. Server issues at launch and subsequent player attrition led to declining numbers and ultimately, the decision to end service. The game's underperformance was previously noted in Bandai Namco's financial report for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024.
Despite initial promise, Blue Protocol couldn't sustain its player base and failed to meet financial projections, resulting in this unfortunate outcome.
