PlayStation Expands AAA Development With New Studio

Sony's Secret Los Angeles Studio: A New AAA IP for PS5?

A newly-opened PlayStation studio in Los Angeles, California, is generating significant buzz. A recent job posting confirmed Sony's 20th first-party studio, currently shrouded in secrecy, is developing a major, original AAA title for the PS5.

The news has ignited excitement among PlayStation fans, who eagerly anticipate future releases from established giants like Santa Monica Studio, Naughty Dog, and Insomniac Games. Sony's recent acquisitions of Housemarque, Bluepoint Games, and Firesprite further demonstrate their commitment to expanding their first-party lineup. This latest, unannounced studio adds another intriguing element to the mix.

The Los Angeles-based studio is described as developing a "groundbreaking" original IP. This information stems from a job listing for a Project Senior Producer, explicitly mentioning the "newly-established AAA studio."

Several theories speculate on the studio's origins. One possibility involves a Bungie spin-off team, formed following the July 2024 layoffs where 155 Bungie employees transitioned to Sony Interactive Entertainment. This team was reportedly working on Bungie's "Gummybears" incubation project.

Another strong contender is the team led by Jason Blundell, a veteran Call of Duty developer. Blundell co-founded Deviation Games, which was developing a PS5 AAA title before its closure in March 2024. Interestingly, many former Deviation Games employees joined PlayStation in May 2024, under Blundell's leadership, suggesting a potential connection to the new studio.

Considering Blundell's team's longer gestation period compared to the Bungie spin-off, it's plausible that the new studio houses Blundell's team, possibly continuing or revising Deviation Games' previous project. While any official announcements from Sony are likely years away, the confirmation of yet another first-party game in development is welcome news for PlayStation enthusiasts.