Sony takes over Bungie's Gummy Bears amid layoffs backlash
- Sony has taken over the development of Gummy Bears from Bungie following recent layoffs.
- Gummy Bears is a team-based MOBA aiming to appeal to a younger audience.
- The project is seen as a potential hit, though there are risks in targeting a new demographic.
In the United States, during early 2025, Sony announced its decision to take control of the Gummy Bears project, which had been under development by Bungie. This shift was prompted by the layoffs at Bungie, which resulted in a reorganization of the studio. A portion of Bungie's team was carved out to continue work on Gummy Bears, now seen as a standalone project separate from the Bungie brand. This game aims to appeal to a younger demographic, diverging significantly from Bungie's traditional titles, such as Halo and Destiny. The game's design is primarily a team-based Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA), featuring distinct classes: Support, Attack, and Defense. This structural shift positions Gummy Bears as not just another entry in the competitive gaming landscape but as an attempt to craft a product uniquely suited for a younger audience. Early feedback indicated that the internal team viewed Gummy Bears as an enjoyable project, potentially more appealing than Bungie’s ongoing development of Marathon, which still adheres to the shooter genre. Despite the optimistic internal sentiments, there are significant risks associated with targeting a younger audience. The competitive landscape is crowded, with numerous established titles vying for attention in the market. Additionally, the team is venturing away from Bungie's quintessential strengths in shooter games, leading to uncertainties about the project’s success. The potential backlash against a MOBA from a studio known for its first-person shooters could complicate its reception. Looking ahead, although Gummy Bears has garnered positive internal reviews, it is challenging to predict whether the game will resonate with the intended audience. The gaming community remains curious about how this significant shift in focus and branding from Bungie could impact its legacy and reputation in the industry at large. As development continues under Sony's aegis, it will be crucial for the team to navigate industry expectations and consumer interests effectively.