Sony’s strategy for live service games on PlayStation is facing significant challenges. The anticipated multiplayer heist shooter, Fairgame$, has been delayed into 2026 due to internal concerns following external testing. This delay is compounded by the departure of Jade Raymond, the head of Haven Studios, the team behind the game, which was acquired by Sony in 2022. Previously, Raymond was a prominent figure at Ubisoft, known for her work on the Assassin’s Creed series.
Game Development and Leadership Changes
Initially, Fairgame$ was slated for a fall 2025 release. However, ongoing development issues have pushed the timeline back, reflecting hesitation within Sony regarding the game’s direction. Raymond’s exit from Haven Studios has raised concerns about the studio’s future and the game’s trajectory. Sony expressed gratitude for her leadership in a statement, highlighting her significant contributions since the studio’s inception.
Game Concept and Features
First revealed during a PlayStation showcase in 2023, Fairgame$ features a concept centered on class struggles, combining elements of sandbox gameplay reminiscent of Robin Hood and Payday 2. The game aims to present emergent gameplay experiences, but specific details remain sparse.
Impact on Sony’s Live Service Strategy
With the appointment of Marie-Eve Danis and Pierre-François Sapinski as co-studio heads, Sony remains committed to Fairgame$. Despite this, the company’s broader ambitions in the live service arena have been marred by setbacks, including the cancellation of The Last of Us Online and the halting of development on the online God of War spin-off. Additionally, the cancellation of the hero shooter Concord last year highlights the difficulties facing Sony’s live service initiatives.