Editor’s note: This article is part of Day 4 (June 28, 2023) of the FTC vs. Microsoft and Activision Blizzard trial.

In a surprising turn of events, confidential documents submitted as part of the ongoing Xbox Federal Trade Commission case inadvertently disclosed the staggering budgets behind two highly anticipated PlayStation games. The poorly-redacted declaration by Sony Interactive Entertainment uncovered that The Last of Us: Part II and Horizon Forbidden West each amassed development costs exceeding $200 million. These figures provide a rare insight into the secretive world of big-budget game development and underscore the immense scale of AAA titles. Furthermore, the budgets serve as a testament to the success and vital role these games played in solidifying PlayStation’s reputation as a premier gaming platform.

For years, the video game industry has tightly guarded the specifics of development budgets, considering their proprietary information. The accidental revelation of these budgets has provided an intriguing glimpse into the financial intricacies of creating blockbuster games. Such transparency is a welcome change for both industry insiders and gamers alike, allowing them to appreciate the enormous investments required to bring these virtual worlds to life.

According to the disclosed documents, The Last of Us: Part II commanded an astounding $220 million budget, with a peak workforce of approximately 200 dedicated professionals. In comparison, Horizon Forbidden West, the highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed Horizon Zero Dawn, incurred a budget of $212 million, harnessing the talents of over 300 developers. These figures underline the immense scale and complexity of crafting AAA titles, shedding light on the intricate processes involved in designing immersive gameplay experiences.

The colossal budgets invested in these games may initially appear excessive. However, both The Last of Us: Part II and Horizon Forbidden West has proven to be resounding commercial successes, generating substantial sales and capturing the imagination of players worldwide. These games have played an instrumental role in fortifying PlayStation’s brand identity as a platform synonymous with excellence and innovation.

Sony Interactive Entertainment justified the substantial costs associated with AAA game development by emphasizing the profound and enduring engagement they offer to players. The documents argued that while a typical Hollywood movie may only be watched once, successful multiplayer AAA games can captivate players for hundreds of hours each year. This comparison underscores the unique loyalty and attachment players develop towards their favorite gaming franchises, solidifying the industry’s position as a dominant force in the entertainment landscape.

The leaked documents further revealed the critical role of the Call of Duty franchise in PlayStation’s competitive strategy. Describing its annual release cycle as unparalleled within the AAA gaming sphere, Sony Interactive Entertainment acknowledged the significant player base the series garners on PlayStation alone. With “tens of millions” of users actively engaging with Call of Duty titles on their platform, PlayStation has recognized the franchise as a crucial component of their success and a driving force behind player loyalty.

The accidental disclosure of these budgets adds yet another layer to the cascade of revelations that have emerged during the Xbox Federal Trade Commission case. From potential acquisitions to release dates, this trial has inadvertently exposed a wealth of previously undisclosed information. As the legal proceedings continue, the eventual ruling on whether a preliminary injunction will be issued against the Xbox-Activision Blizzard merger will undoubtedly shape the future of the industry.