PS5: 11 Second-Party Studios Sony MIGHT Buy
1. Insomniac
The most prolific Sony first-party studio...that isn't actually a Sony first-party studio?
That's correct, the championed developer behind such iconic PlayStation exclusive franchises like Spyro the Dragon, Ratchet & Clank, Resistance and the recent monster hit of Marvel's Spider-Man, is independently owned.
Why likely?
Insomniac started as a company by working exclusively with Sony for 18 years. Since then, the dev has spread out to other platforms sparingly, with its two major non-PS exclusive console titles (Fuse, Sunset Overdrive) resulting in tough commercial failures.
It's a bit of no-brainer if you look at the facts on paper. The two have a deep, decade-spanning partnership with both companies DNA's so deeply intertwined together at this point, it's difficult to tell them apart.
Why Not:
On the other hand, Insomniac is actually the most fiercely successful independent company currently on the market. They don’t need an owner.
Certainly, the company has rarely flexed outside their PS-exclusive comfort zone, but they've enjoyed the freedom to do so if they wish. As is, Sony is getting the best from the company, without having to own them.
Still, this wasn't an unfamiliar story to Naughty Dog back in the day, yet Sony sealed the deal eventually. So whilst not a sure thing, it can still happen. It'll cost a pretty penny though...but no doubt be worth it.
Buying Temperature: Lukewarm