Blue Protocol Global Release Canceled as Japan Servers Close Down

Bandai Namco's Blue Protocol, slated for a global release via Amazon Games, has been cancelled. The Japanese servers will also shut down in January 2025. This decision follows declining player numbers and underperformance.

Blue Protocol: Global Release Cancelled, Japanese Servers Shutting Down

Player Compensation and Final Updates

Bandai Namco has announced the termination of Blue Protocol's Japanese service on January 18, 2025, effectively cancelling the planned global launch. The company cited an inability to meet player expectations as the reason for this decision. They expressed regret for the cancellation and disappointment at ending the partnership with Amazon Games.

To compensate players, Bandai Namco will provide 5,000 Rose Orbs monthly (starting September 2024) and 250 Rose Orbs daily until the service ends. Rose Orb purchases and refunds will be disabled. Furthermore, the Season 9 pass is free, and the final update (Chapter 7) is scheduled for December 18, 2024.

The game's initial Japanese launch in June 2023 saw a strong start with over 200,000 concurrent players. However, server issues and subsequent player dissatisfaction led to a rapid decline in its player base. This underperformance, previously hinted at in Bandai Namco's March 2024 financial report, ultimately led to the decision to cease operations. Despite initial promise, Blue Protocol failed to meet financial targets and sustain player engagement.