Bend Studio Hints at New Project with Community Manager Hiring
Days Gone developer Bend Studio is posting job listings that suggest an upcoming game announcement may be in the works. A community manager position advertised by the studio specifically mentions daily engagement with audiences through official social media channels, indicating preparation for a public reveal. Seven years have passed since the studio's last major release, Days Gone, which launched in 2019 to mixed reviews but later developed a dedicated player base.
Bend Studio has faced significant organizational challenges in recent years following Days Gone's 2019 release. The studio experienced leadership departures, internal conflicts, and the rejection of a proposed sequel pitch. Most recently, Sony halted the studio's live-service project in early 2025, leaving the developer's future uncertain for several months.
The community manager hiring signals a potential shift in direction. By posting a role that explicitly mentions a "high-profile AAA title" beginning in January, the studio appears ready to move forward with a new project. This job posting represents the first official communication from studio leadership in several months, suggesting preparations for an upcoming announcement or marketing campaign.
This development could affect multiple stakeholder groups differently. Gaming audiences invested in Bend's work may experience renewed interest and anticipation. Current and prospective employees gain potential job opportunities within the studio. Publishers and industry observers may view this as evidence of recovery following the live-service cancellation. However, the hiring timeline suggests any formal announcement remains months away, meaning immediate industry impact may be limited. The broader gaming market could benefit from increased competition and creative output if Bend successfully develops and releases a new title.