Bandai Namco has announced the cancellation of the global release of Blue Protocol, along with the closure of its Japanese servers in January 2025. This decision follows declining player numbers and underperformance. Read on for details.
Blue Protocol: Global Launch Cancelled, Japanese Servers Shutting Down
Player Compensation and Final Updates
Bandai Namco's announcement confirms the termination of Blue Protocol's Japanese service on January 18, 2025, effectively canceling the planned global release with Amazon Games. The company cited an inability to meet player expectations as the reason for closure.
In a formal statement, Bandai Namco expressed regret, stating the continued service wouldn't satisfy players. They also acknowledged disappointment at ending development for the global launch.
Until the game's closure, Bandai Namco plans to deliver updates and new content. However, Rose Orb purchases and refunds will cease. As compensation, players will receive 5,000 Rose Orbs monthly (starting September 2024) and 250 daily. The Season 9 pass is now free, and the final update (Chapter 7) is slated for December 18, 2024.
The game's June 2023 Japanese launch, while initially successful with over 200,000 concurrent players, was marred by server issues requiring emergency maintenance. Subsequently, player numbers dwindled, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.
Despite a promising start, Blue Protocol failed to retain players and meet financial targets. Bandai Namco's March 31, 2024 financial report highlighted the game's underperformance, directly contributing to this difficult decision.
