Summary
- A new VR-based Jumping Flash game was reportedly being developed for PSVR2.
- Shuhei Yoshida confirmed early talks but the project didn’t move forward.
- Sony has recently licensed other older titles like Fantavision and Patapon for remakes.
Sony Considered Reviving Jumping Flash for PSVR2
Jumping Flash fans were close to getting a brand-new VR version of the beloved platformer. According to Shuhei Yoshida, Sony had talks with developers to bring back the cult-classic in a fresh format for the PlayStation VR2 headset. While the project was never officially announced, Yoshida confirmed the discussions during a chat with VGC.
“Some developers wanted to license Jumping Flash to develop it into a part of their new VR game,” Yoshida explained, though he didn’t reveal who those developers were. Sadly, it seems the game never got past the early stages and has since been cancelled.
Sony’s Trend of Reviving Classics
The Jumping Flash Game wasn’t the only retro revival considered for VR. Yoshida also mentioned other successful licensing efforts. For example, the creator of Fantavision requested rights and later launched Fantavision 202X as a VR title. Cosmo Machia, a team made up of former Fantavision staff, developed that project.
Sony has been more open to reviving its older properties recently. We’ve already seen announcements for games like Freedom Wars Remastered and Patapon 1+2 Replay, suggesting a strategy of handing out licenses to studios interested in remaking or continuing beloved franchises.
Nostalgia Remains, But No Jumping Flash for Now
Jumping Flash originally launched in 1995 and became known for its quirky 3D platforming and first-person view. It hasn’t had a major comeback since, although a bot modeled after its main character recently appeared in 2024’s Astro Bot.
While this new Jumping Flash Game won’t be jumping onto PSVR2 any time soon, it’s clear that Sony is listening to fan nostalgia. Who knows? Maybe this isn’t the last time we hear about Jumping Flash making a return.