PlayStation Unveils a New AAA Studio in Los Angeles

Sony Interactive Entertainment has quietly established a new, 20th first-party AAA game studio in Los Angeles, California. This revelation comes via a recent job posting for a Project Senior Producer, confirming the existence of a "newly-established AAA studio" in the city. The studio is currently developing a groundbreaking, original AAA IP exclusively for the PlayStation 5.

The addition of this studio to PlayStation's already impressive first-party lineup generates significant excitement among fans. PlayStation's internal studios, including renowned names like Santa Monica Studio, Naughty Dog, and Insomniac Games, consistently deliver high-quality titles. Recent acquisitions like Housemarque, Bluepoint Games, and Firesprite have further strengthened PlayStation's development capabilities. This new, unannounced studio adds another exciting element to this already impressive roster.

Potential Origins: Bungie or Deviation Games?

Speculation regarding the new studio's origins centers on two possibilities. One theory suggests it may house a spin-off team from Bungie, stemming from the studio's layoffs in July 2024. Around 155 Bungie employees transitioned to Sony Interactive Entertainment, potentially forming the core of this new Los Angeles-based team.

Another compelling theory points towards Jason Blundell, a prominent Call of Duty developer and former co-founder of Deviation Games. Deviation Games, which was developing a AAA PS5 title, unfortunately closed in March 2024. However, many former Deviation Games employees joined PlayStation in May 2024 under Blundell's leadership, suggesting a significant role in this new studio. Given the longer gestation period of Blundell's team, it's a strong contender for the identity of the new studio. The project in development could potentially be a continuation or reimagining of Deviation Games' previous work.

While Sony remains tight-lipped about details, the confirmation of a new first-party studio developing an original AAA IP is excellent news for PlayStation fans. While a formal announcement and game reveal may be years away, the anticipation is already building.