Is Godzilla PS4 Discontinued? A Deep Dive into the King of the Monsters’ Digital Delisting
Yes, Godzilla (PS4) is discontinued and was delisted from the PlayStation Store in late 2017. This means you can no longer purchase the game digitally. However, physical copies can still be found, often at elevated prices due to their rarity. The game’s discontinuation stems primarily from expired licensing agreements between Bandai Namco, the publisher, and Toho Company Ltd., the owners of the Godzilla franchise.
The Rise and Fall of Godzilla PS4
Released in 2014 in Japan and 2015 in North America and Europe, Godzilla for the PlayStation 4 (and PlayStation 3) promised players the chance to experience the raw power and destructive capabilities of iconic kaiju. Developed by Natsume Atari, the game allowed players to control Godzilla and other monsters, battling through destructible environments inspired by classic Godzilla films.
The Western release was based on the upgraded Japanese version, Godzilla VS, offering a more complete experience with additional monsters and content. While the game had its fans, particularly among die-hard Godzilla enthusiasts, it received mixed reviews. Criticism was directed at its repetitive gameplay, cumbersome controls, and visuals that, while aiming for authenticity, often fell short.
Despite its shortcomings, the game garnered a dedicated following, and the eventual delisting created a surge in demand for physical copies. This, combined with licensing issues, cemented the game’s status as a rare and somewhat sought-after title. The limited availability and passionate fanbase have contributed to its high price on the secondary market.
Why the High Price for Physical Copies?
The primary reason for the inflated prices of physical copies of Godzilla on PS4 is simple: supply and demand. Once the game was delisted digitally and production of physical copies ceased, the number of available copies dwindled. This scarcity, combined with the strong demand from collectors and fans, drove prices up significantly.
Several factors contribute to the game’s desirability:
- Iconic Franchise: Godzilla is a global phenomenon with a massive and dedicated fanbase.
- Limited Availability: The delisting and subsequent discontinuation of physical production made the game relatively rare.
- Collector’s Item: Many fans view the game as a collectible item, adding to its perceived value.
- Nostalgia: Playing as Godzilla and destroying cities taps into a sense of nostalgia for fans of the classic films.
Is There a Godzilla Game on PS5?
Currently, there is no direct port or sequel to Godzilla (PS4) available on the PlayStation 5. The article mentions Godzilla: Unlimited, a game supposedly released on PS5 and PC. However, this information appears to be inaccurate and there’s no reliable source confirming its existence.
While older PS4 Godzilla game can’t be played on PS5, the gaming landscape is constantly evolving. Given the enduring popularity of the Godzilla franchise, it’s not unreasonable to expect a new Godzilla game to be developed for the PlayStation 5 or other modern platforms in the future.
Future of Kaiju Games
For fans yearning for kaiju action on the PS5, GigaBash offers a similar experience. While not directly a Godzilla game, it features giant monsters battling in destructible environments. It also has a Godzilla DLC to add 4 new playable characters from the Godzilla universe!
FAQs: Your Godzilla PS4 Questions Answered
1. Is Godzilla PS4 still available for digital download?
No, Godzilla PS4 is no longer available for digital download. It was delisted from the PlayStation Store in late 2017.
2. Why was Godzilla PS4 delisted?
The delisting was primarily due to expired licensing agreements between Bandai Namco and Toho Company Ltd.
3. Can I still buy a physical copy of Godzilla PS4?
Yes, you can still find physical copies of Godzilla PS4 on platforms like Amazon and eBay, but be prepared to pay a premium due to their rarity.
4. How much does Godzilla PS4 cost?
The price of Godzilla PS4 varies depending on the condition and seller, but expect to pay significantly more than its original retail price. Prices can range from hundreds to even thousands of dollars for sealed copies.
5. Was Godzilla PS4 a good game?
Godzilla PS4 received mixed reviews. While it captured the essence of the Godzilla franchise and allowed players to destroy cities as iconic monsters, it was criticized for its repetitive gameplay and cumbersome controls.
6. Does Godzilla PS4 have DLC?
The original Godzilla PS4 game did not have DLCs. However, the recent GigaBash does! The GigaBash Godzilla DLC adds 4 new playable characters from the Godzilla universe: Godzilla, Gigan, Mechagodzilla, and Destoroyah!
7. Is Godzilla vs the same as Godzilla PS4?
Yes, the Western version of Godzilla PS4 is based on the upgraded Japanese release called Godzilla VS, which includes additional monsters and content.
8. Can you play Godzilla Destroy All Monsters on PS4?
There’s a game called Godzilla: Destroy All Monsters Ultimate by Lazy Studios for Nintendo Switch, XBOX One, PS4 and PC. Be careful not to mistake it with Godzilla (PS4).
9. Will Godzilla PS4 ever be re-released?
It is unlikely that Godzilla PS4 will be re-released due to the licensing issues that led to its original delisting. However, there is always a possibility if licensing agreements can be renegotiated.
10. What are some other Godzilla games available?
Besides the delisted Godzilla on PS4, other Godzilla games exist on various platforms, including older titles and mobile games.
11. Are PS4 games becoming valuable?
Some PS4 games, especially limited editions and those with a dedicated fan base that have been delisted, are becoming valuable due to their rarity.
12. Is there a new Godzilla game coming out?
There are no officially announced new Godzilla games for consoles at the moment. However, given the franchise’s popularity, future releases are always possible.
13. Why is Godzilla PS4 so rare?
Godzilla PS4 is rare due to a combination of factors, including its delisting from the PlayStation Store, the cessation of physical production, and strong demand from collectors and fans.
14. Will there be another Godzilla movie in 2023?
Yes, Godzilla Minus One premiered at the 36th Tokyo International Film Festival on November 1, 2023, and was released theatrically in Japan on November 3, 2023.
15. Where can I learn more about the history of video games?
To discover more about the history of video games, visit the Games Learning Society website to read informative articles and publications about the science of video games. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.
The discontinuation of Godzilla (PS4) serves as a reminder of the complexities of video game licensing and the impact of digital delisting on physical media. While playing the game may require a significant investment, the experience of controlling the King of the Monsters remains a unique and sought-after one for many fans.