Sony's Disappointing 'Concord' Still Receives Steam Support

Despite its swift demise, Concord, Sony's ill-fated hero shooter, continues to receive updates on Steam. This unexpected activity has sparked considerable speculation among gamers. Let's delve into the ongoing mystery.

Concord's SteamDB Updates Fuel Speculation

Remember Concord? The hero shooter that fizzled out faster than a damp squib? Pulled from digital shelves on September 6th, its Steam page surprisingly shows a consistent stream of updates.

Since September 29th, SteamDB logs over 20 updates, originating from accounts like "pmtest," "sonyqae," and "sonyqae_shipping." These account names suggest a focus on backend improvements and quality assurance ("QAE" likely stands for Quality Assurance Engineer).

Concord's August launch was a significant misstep. Priced at $40, it faced stiff competition from free-to-play juggernauts like Overwatch, Valorant, and Apex Legends. Its short lifespan and overwhelmingly negative reception led to its rapid withdrawal and full refunds.

A Free-to-Play Resurrection?

So, why the continued updates? Former Firewalk Studios Game Director, Ryan Ellis, hinted at exploring alternative strategies, including improved player reach, upon the game's closure. This fuels speculation of a potential free-to-play relaunch. Removing the initial price barrier could significantly broaden its appeal.

Sony's substantial investment (reportedly up to $400 million) suggests a strong incentive to salvage the project. The updates might indicate a significant overhaul, addressing criticisms of weak character design and uninspired gameplay.

However, confirmation remains elusive. Sony's silence leaves the future of Concord uncertain. Could it return with refined mechanics, broader appeal, or a revised monetization model? Only time will tell. Even a successful free-to-play transition would necessitate a fierce battle for attention in a highly competitive market.

Currently, Concord is unavailable for purchase, and Sony offers no official statements. Whether it rises from the ashes remains to be seen.