Bandai Namco has announced the cancellation of the global release of Blue Protocol, and the closure of its Japanese servers in 2025. This decision follows declining player numbers and the inability to meet player expectations.
Blue Protocol's Global Release and Japanese Server Shutdown
Player Compensation and Final Updates
Bandai Namco's statement cites an inability to maintain a satisfactory service level as the reason for the shutdown of Japanese servers on January 18, 2025. Consequently, the planned global launch in partnership with Amazon Games is canceled.
The company expressed regret for the cancellation, acknowledging the disappointment of both players and Amazon Games. However, Bandai Namco will continue to provide 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. Additionally, Season Passes, starting with Season 9, will be free, and the final update (Chapter 7) is slated for December 18, 2024.
The game, launched in June 2023, initially attracted over 200,000 concurrent players. However, early server issues and subsequent player dissatisfaction led to a significant decline in the player base. This underperformance, previously noted in Bandai Namco's financial report (ending March 31, 2024), ultimately led to the decision to terminate service. Despite its promising debut, Blue Protocol failed to meet financial projections and sustain player engagement.
