Sony appears to be auto-refunding Highguard players their microtransaction payments
Sony's move to auto-refund Highguard players highlights the financial risks associated with game development, particularly in the free-to-play model. With fewer than 20 employees remaining at Wildlight after layoffs, the studio's closure underscores the challenges of meeting performance metrics set by financial backers like Tencent's TiMi Studio Group.
The game's launch strategy, reminiscent of Apex Legends, failed to generate sufficient player retention, leading to its early demise. This situation serves as a cautionary tale for developers about the importance of robust marketing and player engagement strategies, especially when relying on microtransactions for revenue.
“I honestly didn't care for a refund. I enjoyed the game and enjoyed supporting it.”
- what
- Sony is auto-refunding microtransaction payments to Highguard players.
- who
- Sony, Wildlight Entertainment, Tencent's TiMi Studio Group
- when
- Highguard launched on January 26 and was closed earlier this month.
- impact
- Highlights risks of financial backing tied to player retention.
Reflects poorly on game viability and financial sustainability.
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