Astro Bot is PlayStation’s Most Exciting Successes in Recent Years, According to PS Studios Boss
Astro Bot is a platformer that has brought almost everyone together, receiving highly positive reviews from both the press and the public, and even winning the Game of the Year award at the 2024 edition of The Game Awards.
Apparently, Sony also recognizes the great value of the game developed by Team Asobi. Hermen Hulst, head of PlayStation Studios, spoke about it during a meeting with shareholders, calling it a “success” and among “the most exciting” achievements the company has had in recent years.
Hermen Hulst’s Praise for Astro Bot
“Astro Bot was a smash hit, achieving universal acclaim among players and critics and sweeping award shows,” said Hulst in a video interview published alongside Sony’s latest investor report.
Hulst also added that Astro Bot is among PlayStation’s “emerging” franchises, a detail confirmed in the investor report, where Team Asobi’s platformer is listed among thesuccessful annual releases from established franchises, alongside titles such as God of War Ragnarok, Horizon: Forbidden West, Gran Turismo 7, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, and Death Stranding 2.
Astro Bot’s Unique Appeal
The executive also spoke about the game in relation to PlayStation’s goals of expanding its portfolio and reaching new audiences. According to him, Team Asobi’s title has managed to “capture both adults and children.”
Hermen Hulst highlighted that PlayStation doesn’t just have games that appeal to a broad audience across different age groups—like Marvel’s Spider-Man, which is popular with people of all ages. The company also creates games that resonate with specific groups of players. For instance, the Horizon series has gained particular popularity among women, showing its ability to connect with a diverse audience.
Meanwhile, Astro Bot, crafted by Team Asobi in Tokyo, stands out for its ability to charm both kids and adults. This variety in game appeal helps PlayStation reach and engage with a wider and more diverse gaming community.
It is known that Astro Bot sold 1.5 million copies between early September and early November of last year. While this may not be an astonishing number, it is likely that the game has continued to grow over time, thanks to the community’s positive word-of-mouth and the prestige associated with the Game of the Year recognition.
