Days Gone, developed by Bend Studio, emerged as a unique entry in the PlayStation 4’s library, offering an open-world experience infused with zombie apocalypse themes. More importantly, it was hyped ahead of its launch, with audiences eagerly awaiting the experience that it could offer following its initial reveal at E3 2016. Unfortunately, it didn’t quite get as much acclaim when it came out in 2019. This hurt more considering that it was supposed to be one of the big first-party Sony exclusives the year that it was released, following the success of titles like God of War, Horizon Zero Dawn, and Marvel’s Spider-Man, all three of which have spawned franchises since.
Part of the reason why Days Gone didn’t get a sequel was apparently due to its lack of sales at launch and mixed critical reception. However, it appears that Days Gone, despite a slow start, eventually recovered, selling over 7.2 million copies on console and 800,000 on PC.
This puts Days Gone with sales numbers at around the 7 million to 8 million mark, which means that it outsold Ratchet & Clank and Death Stranding, both of which got sequels while it didn’t. This, plus the fact that it ended on a cliffhanger ending, makes fans wonder, why is Sony not working on Days Gone 2?
The decision to not pursue a sequel for Days Gone seems to be influenced by several factors. One key reason appears to be the game’s initial critical reception. While Days Gone eventually found its audience, its launch was marred by issues, leading to mixed reviews from critics. This lukewarm reception likely played a role in Sony’s decision-making process, as the company typically prioritizes projects with both commercial and critical acclaim.
Another significant factor in Sony’s decision is the game’s sales pattern. Although Days Gone sold well overall, most of its sales came after substantial price drops, indicating that it didn’t perform as strongly at full retail price. Sony might have taken this as a sign that, while the game eventually found an audience, it might not have the strong initial impact that typically justifies a sequel.
Insights from the leaks involving Insomniac reveal more about Bend Studio’s direction post-Days Gone. The studio was reportedly working on early prototypes for a Days Gone sequel and a new Uncharted title. However, after being asked to choose, the studio ultimately moved forward with a different project – a brand new IP that may be released sometime in 2025.
The decision not to develop Days Gone 2 also reflects Sony’s trust and investment in its studios. While Days Gone was Bend Studio’s first console title in nearly two decades, Sony saw Kojima Productions’ Death Stranding as a safer bet.
Interestingly enough, Bend Studio’s decision to move away from Days Gone 2 aligns with recent concerns about how new intellectual properties have become increasingly rare, especially in the AAA space. Thankfully, the company’s next project is a new IP, which signals Sony’s trust in its desire to explore fresh ideas and concepts. Hopefully, this approach, while risky, can lead to innovative and groundbreaking games that push the boundaries of the medium.
The good news is that Days Gone is a Sony IP. This means that the console manufacturer can revisit it anytime in the future, whether with Bend Studio or not. It isn’t impossible to dream up a scenario where Days Gone, like Alan Wake before it, sees its studio make other award-winning games before circling back to where it all started for them. Better yet, what if Bend Studio gets trusted to create a Days Gone video game universe? Of course, it probably wouldn’t be a live-service title given Sony’s decision to backtrack on the genre. Then again, who knows?
As for Days Gone, it’s currently available to play on Steam with mod support.
