Summary

• A PlayStation studio, not Bungie, is now developing the mysterious MOBA, codenamed Gummy Bears.
• Unlike typical MOBAs, Gummy Bears reportedly uses a percentage-based damage system similar to Super Smash Bros., impacting knockback instead of directly reducing health.
• In development since at least 2020, Gummy Bears is aimed at a younger audience than previous Bungie titles and may still be years from release.

A PlayStation first-party game, codenamed Gummy Bears, is drawing inspiration from the Super Smash Bros. series, according to a recent report. This report also sheds light on other aspects of this enigmatic project.

Initial whispers of Gummy Bears surfaced in August 2023, when The Game Post reported Bungie was developing a MOBA under that codename. Following Bungie's 2024 announcement of 220 employee layoffs (a 17% reduction) and the integration of 155 employees into Sony Interactive Entertainment, a new development has emerged.

The Game Post, citing unnamed sources, reports that Sony has established a new PlayStation studio to take over Gummy Bears' development. This new subsidiary, comprising approximately 40 employees, has assumed responsibility for the project. While the game is likely years from release, its current development stage remains undisclosed. The report also details a unique gameplay mechanic.

Gummy Bears Reportedly Forgoes Health Bars, Adopting a Smash Bros.-Style System

Instead of health bars, Gummy Bears allegedly uses a percentage-based damage system. This system determines knockback distance; higher percentages result in more forceful knockbacks, even potentially knocking characters off the map—a mechanic strikingly similar to Super Smash Bros.

The game will reportedly feature three standard MOBA character classes: Attack, Defense, and Support. Multiple game modes are planned, along with a described aesthetic: cozy, vibrant, and "lo-fi"—a stark contrast to Bungie's previous work. Sources suggest this stylistic choice aims to differentiate Gummy Bears and attract a younger demographic.

Including its time at Bungie, Gummy Bears has reportedly been in development since at least 2020. The shift in developers aligns with PlayStation's recent establishment of a new Los Angeles studio, suggesting this studio is likely responsible for Gummy Bears' development.