Grave Gamer News & Views — scea

Sony America Dumps PlayStation All-Stars Dev; Break Up Apparently Amicable

With neither party offering up much insight into the decision, both SCEA and SuperBot Entertainment have formally announced the end of their working relationship; a partnering that resulted in last Fall’s over-named, license bloated online fighter, PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale.

With PS3 version currently sitting on a critical reception of 74 on Metacritic (its Vita counterpart not far off with a 75), PS All-Stars actually fared pretty well for a game most wrote off as a Smash Bros. clone.  But, considering most major publishers’ open disappointment with scores below the coveted 80 paired with the game’s middling sales performance (not to mention a below-room-temp public reception), Sony’s abandonment of SuperBot starts to make sense from a dry, business perspective.

Instead of venomous accusations and endless finger pointing, it’s the high road for SuperBot.  “We are extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to work with Sony on Playstation All-Stars Battle Royale, and are extremely proud of the work we have done.”

Though they may have gained the most exposure with Sony, the studio began independently in 2009 and intends to keep trucking onto “the next chapter” of their journey.  “SuperBot Entertainment will continue working on projects that reflect our passion for games and our commitment to creating award winning titles,” said the developer.

Recently having to suffer through layoffs, SuperBot says there is no further reduction plan in place but admits it is unlikely the studio can persist with its current workforce for very long.

Meanwhile, PlayStation All-Stars will see continued support from Sony’s Santa Monica Studios, including the upcoming release of character DLC meant to bolster the game’s roster.