James Batchelor
Editor-in-Chief
Friday 4th March 2022
Sony Interactive Entertainment appears to have cancelled the launch of Gran Turismo 7 in Russia, likely in response to the nation's invasion of Ukraine.
The PlayStation 5 exclusive launches around the world today, but Eurogamer reports it is unavailable through the Russian version of the PlayStation Store.
At the time of writing, the store page for Gran Tursimo 7 now reads: "Release date pending confirmation."
Sources told the site that PlayStation took the decision to cancel the launch last night.
Sony has yet to officially announce the move. GamesIndustry.biz has reached out for confirmation and comment.
The delayed launch follows the news that both CD Projekt and Bloober Team have halted all sales of their games in Russia and Belarus.
Earlier this week, the Ukrainian deputy prime minister called for games companies -- including PlayStation and Xbox specifically -- to cut off these markets, as well as requesting that various publishers, including EA, Ubisoft and Riot Games, close their Russian offices.
The hope is to exert pressure on Russia's economy and encourage citizens to join calls for an end to the invasion.
GamesIndustry.biz reached out to all companies referenced, but have yet to receive a response.
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