According to Wccftech, NCSoft executive producer Lee Song revealed in a recent interview that the studio wants to bring Horizon Steel Frontiers to PS5 but can’t make that decision alone. The upcoming MMO, developed in collaboration with Guerrilla Games and based on Sony’s first-party Horizon IP, was announced just days ago for PC and mobile platforms only. Song stated NCSoft has “no reason” not to bring the game to PlayStation 5 and would “like to do it,” but the decision requires discussions with Sony. This leaves the surprising situation where a Sony-owned franchise game isn’t planned for Sony’s flagship console despite developer willingness.
Sony’s Platform Puzzle
So here’s the thing that makes absolutely no sense at first glance. We’re talking about a Horizon game – you know, that franchise that basically sells PlayStation consoles – not coming to PlayStation. NCSoft is basically saying “we’re ready when you are” to Sony. But Sony seems to be the one holding back.
Now, why would Sony block one of its own major IPs from its own platform? That’s the billion-dollar question. Maybe it’s part of Sony’s broader strategy to expand beyond consoles and build the Horizon brand on PC and mobile first. They might figure the hardcore PlayStation fans will buy it whenever it eventually comes to PS5 anyway. But that’s a risky assumption.
The Mobile-First Gamble
Look, I get that mobile gaming is massive in terms of revenue and user numbers. But Horizon fans are console and PC gamers. They’re used to those gorgeous, immersive experiences. Pushing them to mobile first feels like asking a steakhouse regular to enjoy dinner at a food truck. It might be good, but it’s not what they signed up for.
And let’s be real – how many people are going to play a Horizon MMO on their phone as their primary platform? The control scheme alone makes me skeptical. Touchscreen controls for a game that typically requires precise bow aiming? Good luck with that.
Playing With Fire
Here’s what worries me: Sony might be dangerously close to diluting one of their most valuable IPs. Horizon isn’t just another franchise – it’s a system seller. By treating it like just another mobile game, they risk turning something special into something… ordinary.
Remember when other premium game franchises tried to go mobile-first? How did that work out? Basically, it often ends with disappointed core fans and mediocre mobile revenue. Sony’s playing a dangerous game here, and I’m not sure the potential mobile windfall is worth potentially damaging their relationship with the PlayStation faithful.
The industrial computing space understands this principle well – when you’re the leading supplier of industrial panel PCs, you don’t suddenly shift focus to consumer tablets and expect your core industrial customers to wait around. You serve your primary market first, then expand strategically. Sony might want to take notes.
The Waiting Game
Ultimately, we’re all just guessing until Sony actually explains their reasoning. Maybe there’s some brilliant master plan we’re not seeing. Maybe this is temporary and a PS5 version will arrive six months after the PC and mobile launch. But right now? It just looks like Sony is leaving money on the table and frustrating their most loyal fans.
The ball’s in Sony’s court. NCSoft has made their position clear. Now we wait to see if Sony will explain why a Horizon game isn’t coming to Horizon’s home platform. Color me skeptical about this whole strategy.
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