Companies

PS5's 'Concord' Draws Criticism for 'Overwatch' Similarities at PlayStation Event

Published June 1, 2024

At the recent PlayStation State of Play event, which aimed to showcase 14 games in a rapid 30-minute presentation, the spotlight unexpectedly lingered on a particular title: 'Concord.' This new 5v5 hero shooter was introduced via an extended CG cutscene, which led into a gameplay showcase and developer commentary. This considerable allocation of time, about ten minutes, left an impression on the gaming community; however, it wasn't entirely a positive one.

The Reception of 'Concord'

Soon after the presentation, discussions began among fans who felt that 'Concord' bore a striking resemblance to the popular 'Overwatch' series. Critics accused the game of lacking originality, suggesting that the game appeared to be a derivative work rather than a fresh take on the hero shooter genre. These sentiments were echoed across various social media platforms and gaming forums.

Implications for Sony's Investment in Gaming

The reaction to 'Concord' could have implications for investors monitoring Sony's stock SNEJF. As Sony continues to invest heavily in exclusive titles to define the PS5 era, the success or failure of these games could significantly influence the company's gaming division and overall financial performance. On the other hand, Alphabet Inc. GOOG, the parent company to Google and a major player in digital markets, continues to exert its influence across various sectors, although not directly involved in this particular gaming narrative.

Alphabet Inc. and the Tech Market

Despite the unrelated nature of 'Concord 'to its business, Alphabet's position as a tech powerhouse bears acknowledgment. Ranked as the fourth-largest technology company by revenue and among the world's most valuable companies, Alphabet’s presence in the market is a constant reminder of the competitiveness and rapid evolution in tech. While Alphabet remains diversified in its offerings, the gaming industry and developments such as 'Concord' contribute to the dynamic landscape in which Alphabet and its subsidiaries like Google operate.

Sony, Alphabet, Gaming