Bandai Namco's anime-inspired MMORPG, Blue Protocol, is set to shut down its Japanese servers on January 18, 2025 [3], with the planned Western release also being canceled. Launched in Japan in June 2023, the game initially saw significant success, with over 200,000 concurrent players at its peak. However, interest quickly waned due to repetitive gameplay, technical issues, and a lack of fresh content [1].

Figure 1. Blue Protocol.

Despite its promising anime-style visuals and character customization, the game struggled to maintain its player base. Many fans have expressed disappointment, labeling the project a "wasted opportunity." Some speculate that the game’s struggles might even impact future investments in Japanese games, particularly from major stakeholders like Tencent [2]. Figure 1 shows Blue Protocol.

This closure marks a sobering end to what many had hoped would be a long-running and innovative addition to the MMO genre.

Source: Blue Protocol

References:

1. https://www.pcgamer.com/games/mmo/bandai-namco-and-amazon-say-no-refunds-as-they-kill-off-anime-mmo-blue-protocol-but-theyll-give-you-5000-funbucks-a-month-until-it-dies/
2. https://automaton-media.com/en/news/blue-protocol-shutdown-japanese-users-lament-how-the-anime-mmorpg-potential-was-a-wasted-opportunity/
3. https://www.engadget.com/gaming/pc/mmorpg-blue-protocol-shuts-down-before-most-people-got-a-chance-to-play-it-152545183.html

Cite this article:

Hana M (2024), Blue Protocol Shutdown: A Disappointing End to an Ambitious Journey, AnaTechMaz, pp. 61