The team at Bend Studio, the Oregon-based developer known for the popular post-apocalyptic game Days Gone, has given fans a glimpse into their work on a new intellectual property (IP) for the PlayStation 5. The recent update didn't unveil specific details about the upcoming game, but it did suggest that substantial progress is underway for the project.
After being acquired by Sony Interactive Entertainment in 2000, Bend Studio focused on creating shooters and adventure titles for PlayStation's handheld systems before releasing Days Gone for the PS4 in 2019. Despite the commercial success of the first game, Sony declined a pitch for a sequel, prompting Bend Studio to shift its focus to a new IP that would build upon the open world systems of Days Gone.
Breaking a long silence on their next title, Bend Studio assured fans that they are actively working on a new IP. The developer's response to a user's inquiry on Twitter was a succinct 'We cooking,' providing a glimpse into the ongoing development. Bend Studio had previously announced that their next game will feature an open world multiplayer experience, marking a first for the company. The studio's community manager, Kevin McAllister, expressed last May that the current project will surpass previous titles in quality.
Once Bend Studio unveils their new title, it is certain to bring value to the PlayStation 5 lineup, which currently has a limited number of exclusive titles. This includes upcoming games such as the third-person action game Stellar Blade, which was recently delayed.
While the possibility remains slim at present, there may be potential for another installment in the Days Gone series, given the untapped potential of the franchise. With the first game leaving fans on a cliffhanger, there is a notable demand for a proper resolution to the story.
With a petition for a Days Gone sequel launched in 2021 amassing over 210,000 signatures, it's evident that there is significant interest in such a project. Bend Studio would be well-positioned to capitalize on the existing enthusiasm should they decide to release a new game, with plenty of material for a potential Days Gone sequel or prequel.