Amazon Game Studios’ MMORPG, New World, has reached a critical juncture. The ambitious project from the Irvine, California-based team, initially heralded as a significant entry in Amazon’s gaming endeavors, is now winding down. Reports suggest the game won’t be receiving any further content updates, making its future uncertain beyond the current offerings.
End of Development for New World
Season 10: Nighthaven, which debuted earlier this month, serves as the final content update for New World. Amazon stated that continuing development is no longer feasible, though the game’s servers will continue to operate until at least December 31, 2026. The company has promised to inform players six months prior to any server closures.
While the game and its currency remain available for purchase across all platforms, PlayStation 5 players accessing the game via PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium can still enjoy the title. **Amazon will issue notifications if this availability changes.**
A Journey of Highs and Lows
New World marked Amazon’s first significant foray into the gaming world, initially announced at TwitchCon 2016, alongside the now-canceled Breakway and Crucible. New World evolved from a PvP-focused sandbox to a more conventional PvE game with dungeons and missions. This pivot, though, left both PvE and PvP players wanting more.
The game’s launch in September 2021 was a major event, as it was the first Western AAA MMORPG release since 2014’s The Elder Scrolls Online. Despite initial praise and a strong start, including commendations from Jeff Bezos, the game struggled to maintain its player base due to insufficient PvE content and restrictive PvP options.
Developers responded with more PvE content, expansions like Rise of the Angry Earth, and rebranding efforts, but it wasn’t enough to sustain player interest. Season 10: Nighthaven rekindled some excitement with MMO fans, but the revitalization came too late, as the decision to cease the project was already in place.
The Future of Amazon’s Gaming Ventures
The fate of Amazon’s other projects, particularly The Lord of the Rings MMO, also hangs in the balance. Although revived two years ago, the status of this game remains unclear, with many speculating it may face the same fate as New World. An official statement from Amazon is awaited to clarify its future plans in the gaming sector.