| Otter said: Seems to be related to the NCSoft PURPLE platform |
I mean this is it, at least the Purple part. I don't think any of us here have a full understanding on how NCSoft is leveraging Purple, but it's their launcher for PC (and mobile too I think).
When you look at Thorn and Liberty, you'll notice that the game is only on Steam in regions where NCSoft was NOT the publisher. When they were, the game is only available via Purple. Even the console release, which is not handled by NSSoft, is available on their respective stores in regions where the PC version is Purple exclusive.
Sony wants to expand the Horizon IP. NCSoft wants to strengthen Purple. The press release for this new Horizion title specifically calls out Purple as it's means of delivery. This is most likely why NCSoft is not developing a console version, because they're all in on Purple, and have no reason to maintain a console release. Likewise, Sony most likely has no intention of maintaining a console release either, at least not anytime soon.
Take into account Sony's own Horizon MP game which is in development, most likely for Steam PC with the PS5 version, and both companies avoid unnessary cannibilisation of each other's release, while still being able to target a larger overall userbase for Horizon as an IP.
