Horizon Hunters Gathering is reportedly no longer a live service game following negative feedback

Horizon Hunters Gathering, once a live service game, is reportedly transitioning away from that model following unfavorable early playtest feedback, according to Bloomberg. Sources close to the project claim that developer Guerilla Games has been reworking the game since June to pivot towards a more conventional multiplayer co-op experience.

The live service mechanics are being phased out in favor of a story-driven single-player mode and a significantly smaller scope. While the game remains operational, Guerilla Games has until December to demonstrate its worth to PlayStation executives. Several developers involved in Horizon Hunters Gathering are being reassigned to other projects at the studio, which will also be reviewed by top executives at year's end.

This development adds to Sony's ongoing struggles with live service games, which have faced criticism and cancellations in recent years. Notable failures include Concord, Bluepoint Games (following the cancellation of a God of War live service title), Naughty Dog's Last of Us multiplayer, and Twisted Metal's battle royale attempt.

The company has also grappled with underperforming projects such as Marathon and the recently terminated Fairgames, which saw its director depart last year. Despite these setbacks, Guerilla Games aims to revamp Horizon Hunters Gathering into a product that meets PlayStation's expectations.