Bend Studio’s 2027 Co-op Project Confirmed as New IP, Not Days Gone Sequel
Sony-owned Bend Studio is reportedly developing a third-person co-op game for a 2027 release, a timeline that seems aggressive given the project only started in mid-2025. The game is confirmed not to be a Days Gone sequel or a live-service title, likely leveraging assets from a previously canceled project.
Key points
- Bend Studio is developing a new third-person co-op game, with a reveal and potential release targeted for 2027.
- The project is confirmed not to be a Days Gone sequel, despite the 2019 title's profitability and recent remaster release.
- The game is not planned as a live-service title, diverging from Sony's recent push for such models.
- Development began in June 2025, following the cancellation of an open-world live-service game and a 30% workforce reduction.
- The rapid timeline suggests significant reuse of code and assets from the canceled project.
Background
Bend Studio, known for the 2019 action-adventure game Days Gone, faced significant restructuring in 2025. The studio canceled an unannounced open-world live-service game and cut 30% of its staff. Despite these setbacks, the studio has been actively developing a new project since mid-2025. Sony Interactive Entertainment has been navigating a shift in its live-service strategy following the failure of Concord, though it continues to explore such models with titles like Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls.
How outlets are covering it
Wccftech and TechPowerUp both cite the leaker MP1st, confirming the 2027 timeline and the nature of the game as a third-person co-op title. Wccftech emphasizes the improbability of the timeline, suggesting heavy asset reuse from the canceled game, while TechPowerUp highlights the likelihood of a PS5-exclusive launch due to Sony's platform strategy. GamingBolt notes the uncertainty regarding whether the game is a new IP and the possibility that live-service elements could be added later, contrasting with the current plan. All sources agree that the game is not a Days Gone sequel, a point explicitly confirmed by the leaker and echoed across outlets.
Why it matters
The 2027 release of a triple-A game from a studio that only began development in mid-2025 and underwent significant layoffs challenges conventional game development timelines. It suggests a high degree of asset reuse and efficiency, potentially setting a precedent for rapid development in the industry. Additionally, the confirmation that the game is not a live-service title may signal a shift in Sony's strategy, especially after the failure of Concord and underperformance of other live-service titles like Horizon Hunters Gathering and Marathon.
What to watch
Watch for an official reveal from Bend Studio in 2027, which may provide more details on the game's IP, gameplay mechanics, and platform availability. Monitor Sony's broader strategy regarding live-service games, as the success or failure of this co-op title could influence future decisions. Keep an eye on any announcements regarding the Days Gone franchise, as the studio's focus shifts to this new project.
- Sony’s Bend Studio Reportedly Plans a 2027 Reveal and Possible Release for Its Third-Person Co-Op Game, Despite Starting the Project Only in Mid-2025 Wccftech
- Days Gone 2 Won't Be Bend Studio's Next Game Slated for 2027 Launch TechPowerUp
- Rumour: Days Gone Dev to Announce and Launch New PS5 Game in 2027 Push Square
- Days Gone Studio’s Next is a Third-Person, Co-op Title Targeting 2027 – Rumor GamingBolt
- Bend Studio Reportedly Developing 3rd-Person Co-Op Game VGChartz
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