A recent interview with a PlayStation co-CEO has suggested that the company is open to exploring the revival of its classic gaming franchises.
Hermen Hulst, an executive at Sony Interactive Entertainment, discussed topics regarding the future of PlayStation, and how they may draw from the past as part of their new direction.
Hulst's interview with the Japanese video game magazine Famitsu has sparked discussion among fans online, leading to considerations on which beloved PlayStation IPs could see a comeback in 2025 and beyond. The interview also reflected on the success of Team Asobi's , the importance of games like and in Hulst's vision for PlayStation's future, and the challenges of the live-service model as seen in the infamous launch and quick shutdown of this year.
Herman Hulst's interview with Famitsu touched upon some of his major inspirations in PlayStation's catalog of iconic IPs, with and the modern classic being brought up in discussion. Hulst noted that Naughty Dog's 2009 sequel "" with Santa Monica Studio's revival of featuring some of the best immersion in a game world. Hulst's underscoring of classic PlayStation franchises is further explored when questioned about the appearance of many iconic characters in 2024's Game of the Year «Our extensive IP portfolio is an important asset for PlayStation, and as part of our efforts to strengthen our portfolio, we continually explore opportunities to leverage our legacy IP as well as develop new franchises» — Herman Hulst, Famitsu This recognition of PlayStation's rich history of classic titles may suggest the revival of adored but dormant franchises.
Whilst Hulst remains tight-lipped on what games could come back, the importance of and its many cameo appearances from PS icons could be an important factor in Hulst's outlook for PlayStation's future.