FromSoftware’s Grip on IP: Why Bluepoint’s ‘Bloodborne’ Remake Never Saw the Light of Day
The recent closure of Sony’s Bluepoint Games has sent ripples through the gaming industry, but the reasons behind it are now coming into sharper focus. It wasn’t simply a case of a studio failing to adapt. it was a collision of creative control, shifting priorities, and a studio caught between what it excelled at and what Sony needed. At the heart of the matter lies a rejected pitch for a ‘Bloodborne’ remake and a cancelled ‘God of War’ live-service project.
The ‘Bloodborne’ Remake Blocked by FromSoftware
Bluepoint Games, renowned for its meticulous remakes of ‘Demon’s Souls’ and ‘Shadow of the Colossus’, actively pursued the opportunity to revitalize ‘Bloodborne’ for modern platforms in early 2025. Despite Sony believing the project was financially viable, FromSoftware, the original developer, ultimately vetoed the remake. This decision wasn’t about the quality of Bluepoint’s function, but rather a protective stance from ‘Bloodborne’ director Hidetaka Miyazaki, who reportedly prefers not to have others revisit his creations.
Former PlayStation executive Shuhei Yoshida echoed this sentiment, suggesting Miyazaki was hesitant to allow anyone else to modify or recreate ‘Bloodborne’, given his deep connection to the game and his current workload. This highlights a growing trend: developers increasingly guarding their intellectual property and maintaining tight control over remakes and remasters.
A Failed Pivot to Live Service
Prior to the ‘Bloodborne’ pitch, Bluepoint was tasked with developing a live-service game within the ‘God of War’ universe. This represented a significant departure from the studio’s core competency – single-player, visually stunning remakes. The project proved to be a poor fit, with internal frustrations mounting as staff struggled with a game type they weren’t passionate about creating. This illustrates the challenges studios face when forced to deviate from their strengths to align with broader corporate strategies.
The Aftermath: Unapproved Pitches and Studio Closure
Following the cancellation of the ‘God of War’ live-service title and the rejection of the ‘Bloodborne’ remake, Bluepoint spent over a year seeking a new project, but to no avail. Pitches for a remake of their own ‘Shadow of the Colossus’ and a spin-off within the ‘Ghost of Tsushima’ series were both turned down. This inability to secure a new project ultimately led to Sony’s decision to close the studio earlier this month.
The Future of Remakes and IP Control
The Bluepoint situation raises essential questions about the future of remakes and the increasing control developers are exerting over their intellectual property. We’re likely to spot fewer unapproved remakes, even of beloved titles, as studios prioritize maintaining creative vision and brand consistency.
The Rise of First-Party Remakes
Expect more remakes to be handled internally by the original developers, or with their direct oversight. This ensures the remake aligns with their artistic intent and avoids potential missteps. The success of Capcom’s internally-led remakes of ‘Resident Evil 2’, ‘Resident Evil 3’, and ‘Resident Evil 4’ demonstrates the viability of this approach.
The Challenges of Live Service for Established IPs
The failed ‘God of War’ live-service game serves as a cautionary tale. Simply applying the live-service model to a beloved single-player franchise doesn’t guarantee success. It requires a careful understanding of the existing fanbase and a compelling reason for players to engage with the game long-term.
The Value of Specialized Studios
Bluepoint’s expertise in remakes was undeniable. Their closure highlights the potential loss of valuable skills and artistry when studios are forced to abandon their core strengths. The industry may see a shift towards valuing specialized studios that excel in specific areas, rather than demanding they become all-purpose development houses.
FAQ
Q: Why did FromSoftware block the ‘Bloodborne’ remake?
A: FromSoftware, and specifically Hidetaka Miyazaki, reportedly didn’t desire anyone else revisiting the game, preferring to maintain creative control.
Q: What was Bluepoint working on before the studio closed?
A: Bluepoint was initially developing a live-service ‘God of War’ game, which was later cancelled.
Q: Will we ever see a ‘Bloodborne’ remake?
A: It’s currently unlikely, given FromSoftware’s stance. However, the possibility remains if FromSoftware decides to develop it internally.
Q: What does this mean for the future of remakes?
A: Expect more remakes to be handled by the original developers or with their close supervision, and a greater emphasis on studios specializing in specific genres or types of development.
Did you recognize? The ‘Demon’s Souls’ remake by Bluepoint was a launch title for the PlayStation 5 and widely praised for its stunning visuals and faithful recreation of the original.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on developer statements and industry news for clues about potential remakes and remasters. Developers often hint at future projects through social media and interviews.
What are your thoughts on the closure of Bluepoint Games and the future of remakes? Share your opinions in the comments below!
