Bandai Namco's Blue Protocol, initially promising, will cease operations in Japan, effectively canceling its planned global launch via Amazon Games. The closure, slated for January 18, 2025, reflects Bandai Namco's inability to meet player expectations.
Blue Protocol: Japan Server Shutdown and Global Release Cancellation
Player Compensation and Final Updates
Bandai Namco's official statement cites an inability to maintain a satisfactory service as the reason behind the closure. Disappointment over the halted global partnership with Amazon Games was also expressed.
To compensate players, Bandai Namco will provide 5,000 Rose Orbs monthly (September 2024 - January 2025) plus 250 daily. Rose Orb purchases and refunds are discontinued. Furthermore, Season 9's pass is free, and the final update (Chapter 7) arrives December 18, 2024.
The game's June 2023 Japanese launch, despite initial success (over 200,000 concurrent players), was marred by server issues requiring immediate maintenance. Subsequently, player numbers dwindled, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.
Despite its strong initial player count, Blue Protocol failed to retain its audience and meet financial projections. This underperformance, previously hinted at in Bandai Namco's March 31, 2024 financial report, ultimately led to the decision to end service.
