Sony Job Listing Hints at Return of Old PlayStation Franchises
Following the releases of Freedom Wars: Remastered and Patapon 1 + 2 Replay, the company may continue to reboot old projects. Sony Interactive Entertainment has an opening for a part-time release manager, involving work with PlayStation Studios and interaction with international teams.
Particular attention was drawn to the location of the office, which is a five-minute walk from Monzen-Nakacho station. Bandai Namco Studios and the GYAAR Studio base are located in this area. GYAAR supports independent developers by holding competitions with funding up to 100 million yen, as well as providing access to a studio, equipment, and support from other teams.
The connection between the job openings and GYAAR Studio seems indirect, but there are practically no other notable studios nearby. At the same time, Sony does not necessarily have to cooperate with the competition participants directly; the company can coordinate the licensing of its retro franchises for indie or small studios. SAS CO., LTD., which developed Patapon 1 + 2 Replay, is also a small team and previously worked on Theatrhythm Final Fantasy All-Star Carnival.
Which specific series might get a new incarnation is currently unknown. Potential candidates include PaRappa the Rapper, LocoRoco, and Ape Escape.
