Michael Pachter Claims Fairgame$ Canceled as Sony ‘Loses Its Way’

Analyst Michael Pachter Indicates Possible Cancellation of Fairgame$

In the latest episode of the Pachter Factor podcast, Michael Pachter, a renowned analyst from Wedbush Securities, has dropped some significant hints regarding the fate of Fairgame$.According to Pachter, the game may have been canceled amid Sony’s broader shift towards live service gaming.

Critique of Sony’s Live Service Strategy

Pachter expressed skepticism about Sony’s decision-making, particularly regarding their acquisition of Bungie. He remarked that Sony may have overvalued Bungie, pointing out the substantial $3.6 billion they paid for a studio that, while talented with hits like Halo and Destiny, might not align with their live service goals. In his view, they should have targeted acquisitions that would cater to their new direction, particularly companies experienced in the realm of live services.

The Fallout: Impact on Haven Studios

In a startling update, Pachter mentioned that Jade Raymond had been released, and her project, Fairgame$, has reportedly been canceled. This news follows the earlier announcement that the game, a competitive heist experience planned for PlayStation 5 and PC, faced a delay from 2025 to 2026. This cancellation, if confirmed, represents another setback for Sony within the competitive landscape of live service gaming, particularly after the discontinuation of titles like Concord and The Last of Us Online.

Pachter’s Perspective on Sony’s Missteps

During the podcast, Pachter did not hold back his criticism, asserting that Sony appears to be struggling with its corporate direction. He stated, “They are bad managers. They don’t know what they’re doing.” He advocates for a return to focusing on what Sony excels at while pursuing acquisitions that complement its current strengths. He suggested that instead of Bungie, Sony should consider purchasing companies like King or Supercell, which have proven expertise in creating successful live service and free-to-play models.

Sony’s Response and Future Outlook

In light of these developments, Sony has acknowledged that its transition into live service gaming has not been as successful as anticipated. The company recently indicated a commitment to learn from these mistakes moving forward. As the industry evolves, the efficacy of Sony’s strategic decisions will be closely monitored by both analysts and gamers alike.

The implications of these changes may significantly impact Sony’s offerings in the competitive gaming sector, making it crucial for them to reconsider their approach.

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