Blue Protocol Global Launch Scrapped

Bandai Namco has declared that Blue Protocol servers will be deactivated in Japan next year, and the projected global launch by Amazon Games has been terminated consequently. Read on to learn more about the announcement and the game.

Blue Protocol Global Release Canceled as Japan Servers Shut DownFinal Updates and Compensation for Players

Blue Protocol will cease operation in Japan on January 18, 2025, as declared by Bandai Namco. Concurrently, the global launch, in collaboration with Amazon Games, is also canceled. Bandai attributed the closure to an inability to deliver a service meeting player expectations.

Bandai's official statement expressed regret: "We have determined that continued service meeting everyone's satisfaction is beyond our capacity." The company also voiced disappointment at halting global development with Amazon Games.

Until its closure, Bandai will provide updates and new content. However, in-game currency, Rose Orbs, will be unavailable for purchase or refund. Bandai will distribute 5,000 Rose Orbs monthly (starting September 2024) and 250 daily. The season pass will be free (starting with Season 9), and Chapter 7 launches December 18, 2024.

The game debuted in Japan in June 2023 and initially attracted significant interest, drawing over 200,000 concurrent players immediately after its regional launch. However, the game's Japan launch reportedly suffered from server problems, prompting Bandai to implement emergency maintenance on release day. The game soon experienced dwindling player counts and rising player discontent.

Despite its auspicious beginning, Blue Protocol struggled to retain its player base and missed the company’s financial targets. Bandai Namco had noted the game's underperformance months prior in its financial report for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024, leading to the decision to cease operations.