Blue Protocol Global Release Canceled as Japan Servers Close Down

Bandai Namco's Blue Protocol, slated for a global launch by Amazon Games, has been canceled. The Japanese servers will also shut down in January 2025. This follows declining player numbers and unmet expectations.

Blue Protocol: Global Release and Japan Server Shutdown

Player Compensation and Final Updates

Bandai Namco has announced the closure of Blue Protocol's Japanese servers on January 18, 2025, effectively ending the planned global release. The company cited its inability to deliver a consistently satisfying service as the reason for this decision. They expressed regret for the cancellation and disappointment at halting global development with Amazon Games.

To compensate players, Bandai Namco will provide ongoing support with updates and new content until the game's closure. While Rose Orbs will no longer be purchasable or refundable, players will receive 5,000 Rose Orbs monthly (starting September 2024) and 250 daily. Season passes will be free, beginning with Season 9, and the final update (Chapter 7) is scheduled for December 18, 2024.

The game's Japanese launch in June 2023 initially saw a surge in popularity, exceeding 200,000 concurrent players. However, server issues on launch day and subsequent player dissatisfaction led to a rapid decline in the player base. The game's underperformance, previously noted in Bandai Namco's March 31, 2024 financial report, ultimately contributed to the decision to cease operations. Despite its promising start, Blue Protocol failed to meet financial targets and sustain player engagement.