Bandai Namco is ending anime MMORPG Blue Protocol in Japan, western release cancelled

Bandai Namco has announced it will be ending Blue Protocol, its anime MMORPG.

The game was released in Japan in June 2023 and was set to be released in the west via Amazon Games, but the western release has now been cancelled.

In a statement posted on its official website, Bandai Namco stated that the game’s servers would be turned off early next year.

“We regret to inform you that the Japanese version of Blue Protocol will be discontinued on Saturday January 18, 2025,” the statement reads.

“As a result, we have also canceled our plans to release a Western version of the game in collaboration with Amazon Games.

“We have enjoyed a strong relationship with Amazon Games throughout the development of Blue Protocol, and both of our teams are disappointed that we will not be able to deliver the game to players around the world.

“We know there has been great anticipation for Blue Protocol since the first announcement of the game. We wanted to deliver an experience that is like stepping into the world of anime, and we have been challenging ourselves to create a world where each and every player can enjoy adventures as the main character of the anime.

“We have worked hard to prepare for the release. However, we have come to the conclusion that it will not be possible to provide a service that satisfies all of you. We deeply apologise for the sudden announcement.”

Bandai Namco and Amazon Gamesannounced back in December 2022 that they would be bringing the anime-inspired MMORPG to the west, with a 2023 release originally planned.

“Blue Protocol is a beautifully crafted game, it’s like an anime come to life,” Amazon Games VP Christoph Hartmann said at the time.

“Bandai Namco Online has created a world of the highest quality with a compelling story that will build community and immerse players in an action-packed adventure. As anime continues to rise in popularity globally, we look forward to bringing Blue Protocol to players in the West next year.”