Team Asobi is a Tokyo-based developer that technically, was formed in 2021. Asobi originally formed in 2012 as part of Japan Studio, but became independent when Japan Studio closed in 2020.
They're known for smaller-scoped games that focus on new PlayStation hardware. For example, The PlayRoom to show off the DualShock 4 and Astro Bot Rescue Mission for PSVR. Asobi are also one of the smallest PS Studios with a headcount at around 65.
Their first PS5 game was Astro's Playroom. A free PS5 launch title that comes pre-installed. Its gameplay was developed in a way to show off the PS5's new features like haptic feedback.
Despite Astro's Playroom releasing in 2020, it took until May 2024 for Team Asobi to announce their next game, simply called Astro Bot - their biggest game yet which released in September.
Astro's Playroom was a great game that even after 4 years, has still made the best use of the DualSense. It's why Asobi survived the Japan Studio closure.
It's therefore no surprise that this experience, combined with Astro Bot having double the development time, resulted in a 94 on Metacritic. Making Astro Bot the highest rated game of 2024 and tieing with God of War: Ragnarok as the highest rated first-party PS5 game.
It's still too early for sales figures, but it's been at the top of sales charts worldwide. A desperately needed win for Sony after Concord.
Genre: Platformer
Release Date: November 12, 2020
Days Since Their Last Game: 773
Metacritic Score: 83
Genre: Platformer
Release Date: September 6, 2024
Days Since Their Last Game: 1395
Metacritic Score: 94