Bandai Namco has announced the cancellation of the global release of Blue Protocol, following the decision to shut down the game's Japanese servers in early 2025. This article details the announcement and its implications for players.
Blue Protocol: Global Release Canceled, Japan Servers Shutting Down
Player Compensation and Final Updates
Bandai Namco's announcement confirms the closure of Blue Protocol's Japanese servers on January 18, 2025, effectively ending the planned global launch in partnership with Amazon Games. The company cited an inability to meet player expectations as the reason for the shutdown.
In a formal statement, Bandai Namco expressed regret over the cancellation, stating their inability to deliver a satisfactory service. Disappointment at the halted global development with Amazon Games was also noted.
Before the game's closure, Bandai Namco plans to continue providing updates and new content. Rose Orb purchases and refunds will cease, but players will receive 5,000 Rose Orbs monthly (starting September 2024) plus 250 daily. Season Passes, starting with Season 9, will be free, and the final update (Chapter 7) is slated for December 18, 2024.
Launched in Japan in June 2023, Blue Protocol initially attracted over 200,000 concurrent players. However, server issues at launch, followed by declining player numbers and negative feedback, led to the game's underperformance.
Despite its promising debut, Blue Protocol failed to retain its player base and meet Bandai Namco's financial projections. This underperformance, previously mentioned in their March 31, 2024 financial report, ultimately led to the decision to cease service.
