The Lost Sequels: What Could Have Been for PS Vita’s Soul Sacrifice and Freedom Wars

The PlayStation Vita was home to some unique and memorable titles, attracting a dedicated fan base that still holds fond memories of its library. Recently, former SIE president Shuhei Yoshida revealed that there were plans for sequels to two beloved Vita games—Soul Sacrifice and Freedom Wars—before Sony shifted its resources toward the PlayStation 4. This news sheds light on what might have been an exciting new chapter for fans of these franchises and underscores the challenges of maintaining support for handheld consoles in the ever-evolving gaming market.

A Shift in Focus

In a candid discussion on the podcast Sacred Symbols+, Yoshida highlighted the limitations imposed by budget constraints at the time. “We were actually working on Soul Sacrifice 2 and Freedom Wars 2, but because of budget limitations, we had to stop and move on to PS4,” he stated. This admission emphasizes how strategic decisions in the gaming industry can dramatically alter the landscape for dedicated fans.

The transition from PS Vita to PS4 represented a significant shift for Sony, and as a result, many first-party titles that could have flourished on the handheld were sidelined. Historically, titles like Uncharted: Golden Abyss, developed by Sony Bend, showcased the potential of the Vita in delivering high-quality experiences. However, the allure and sales potential of the PS4 ultimately took precedence, leaving enthusiasts of titles like Freedom Wars and Soul Sacrifice disappointed.

Unpacking Freedom Wars

Freedom Wars, developed by Dimps and published by Sony Computer Entertainment, enjoyed moderate success, especially in Japan, where it became the second-highest opening sales for any PlayStation Vita title. This dystopian action RPG placed players in a grim future where resources are so scarce that living itself is considered a crime. The concept was both dark and compelling, drawing players into its narrative of survival against all odds.

The game’s unique setting of city-sized prisons called Panopticons resonated well with players. The desperate struggle for resources and survival formed a gripping backdrop that kept many engaged. To further delight fans, a remastered version of the game was recently released, bringing the experience to a new generation of players.

The Legacy of Soul Sacrifice

Similarly, Soul Sacrifice captured players’ imaginations through its innovative gameplay and haunting storytelling. Created by Marvelous in collaboration with the now-defunct PlayStation Japan Studio, the game boasted a signature design from Capcom veteran Keiji Inafune. Released in 2013, it became known for its dark themes and moral dilemmas, forcing players to make difficult choices throughout their journey. The expanded version, Soul Sacrifice Delta, arrived a year later, further enhancing the original’s core experience.

While Soul Sacrifice has not seen the same level of remastering as its counterpart, the influence of its design and storytelling style is evident in subsequent games, inspiring both fans and developers alike.

Missing Opportunities

Yoshida’s revelations about the cancellation of sequels to these titles have triggered discussions among fans about the direction of gaming and the support for handheld devices. As positioned in an ever-competitive gaming landscape, the decisive move to enhance PS4’s library at the expense of beloved PS Vita franchises reflects a broader challenge in the industry: the rapid evolution of hardware and consumer expectations frequently leaves niche games behind.

While Freedom Wars and Soul Sacrifice may remain as cult favorites, their untapped potential for sequels is a lingering ‘what if’ for fans who yearned for more adventures in their innovative worlds. This situation invites reflection on how gaming companies can balance new developments with the legacies of existing franchises.

Conclusion

As we look back at the revelations surrounding Soul Sacrifice 2 and Freedom Wars 2, it’s clear that the narratives and mechanics of these titles had the potential to evolve into something extraordinary. The shifting focus of resources from PS Vita to PS4 left fans yearning for what could’ve been. As of 2025, the questions surrounding these untold sequels remain, challenging both game developers and enthusiasts to advocate for diverse gaming experiences that embrace both innovation and nostalgia.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Vita or simply curious about the gaming market’s trajectory, the legacies of Soul Sacrifice and Freedom Wars continue to resonate, reminding us of the creativity and storytelling potential that exists within the world of video games.

For more insights into the evolution of gaming and the impact of past titles, be sure to check our articles on the history of PlayStation consoles and the rise of indie games, which highlight the diverse narratives that shape our gaming experiences.