Sony’s upcoming live-service shooter, Concord, is gearing up for its launch with an exciting addition for PlayStation enthusiasts—a new limited edition DualSense controller. As Concord’s release approaches on August 23, the pre-orders for this specially themed controller have gone live, signaling Sony’s commitment to promoting the game despite mixed reactions from its beta tests.

Background of Concord

Concord, a competitive 5v5 first-person hero shooter, marks the debut title from Firewalk Studios. The studio, a PlayStation first-party team, comprises industry veterans from notable franchises like Destiny and BioShock. Initially announced in 2021 as an untitled multiplayer project, Concord was later unveiled in a CGI trailer at the 2023 PlayStation Showcase, following Sony’s acquisition of Firewalk Studios. Expectations were set high, but the game’s reveal as a 5v5 hero shooter at the May 2024 State of Play left many fans underwhelmed, looking for something more innovative.

Reception of Concord Betas

The beta phases of Concord did not ignite significant interest, drawing fewer than 2,500 concurrent players on Steam. This tepid response has placed additional pressure on Sony’s marketing strategies, pushing them to find new ways to engage potential players and boost anticipation for the game’s release.

Concord Limited Edition DualSense Controller

Design and Features

The Concord Limited Edition DualSense controller builds on the design of the Midnight Black standard model, enhancing it with red and turquoise decals that reflect Concord’s neo-retro sci-fi theme. Distinctive touches, such as a spaceship motif on the left-hand grip, add character to the controller, although the unique decals are limited to the front, with only the Concord logo adorning the back.

Pricing and Availability

Priced at $84.99, this controller is the most expensive DualSense variant to date, a factor that might deter some buyers despite its appealing aesthetics. Currently, pre-orders are open exclusively in the United States via the PlayStation Direct website. The controller is set to launch simultaneously with the game on August 23, 2024.

Market Impact and Consumer Response

While the Concord themed controller is a striking piece of hardware, its high price tag and the game’s lukewarm reception might limit its appeal. Sony remains optimistic, hoping that this limited edition release will not only win over fans of collectible gaming gear but also help rekindle interest in Concord itself.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for Concord

With Concord poised for release, the game faces the challenge of overcoming its initial reception and proving its worth in a competitive market. The limited edition DualSense controller represents a significant part of Sony’s strategy to boost engagement. Whether this move will translate into higher game adoption rates remains to be seen. The upcoming months will be crucial for Concord as it seeks to capture the attention of the gaming community and establish a foothold in the crowded shooter genre.

Final Thoughts

The Concord PS5 controller underscores the potential of themed gaming accessories to enhance player engagement and generate excitement around new titles. As the gaming community awaits the release, the success of such strategies will likely influence future promotional efforts for other games under the Sony umbrella.

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