Top 10 Things That Stopped Existing in 2024
Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the products and services we bid goodbye in 2024.
#10: “Concord” (2024)
There’s a new elephant in the room at Sony, and its name is Concord. Perhaps no game has ever flopped as hard as this one, which was envisioned as an ambitious sci-fi PvP multiplayer shooter set in a richly immersive universe. Despite high hopes, Concord’s release was extremely underwhelming both financially and critically, drawing in only 700 simultaneous players on Steam and selling a measly 25,000 copies. As such, Sony chose to shut “Concord” down less than two weeks after the game’s launch, which translated to four hundred million dollars flushed down the tube. Farewell, Concord; we hardly knew ye.
#9: Various Airlines
2024 marked a turbulent year for aviation. Not only have major airlines, most notably Spirit, admitted to massive fallbacks and losses, but smaller carriers from outside the U.S. – such as FlyEgypt, FlyArna, JetAir Caribbean, and Humo Air – have been forced to ground their fleets for good. So what exactly is going on up there? A lot of changes and uncertainty in the realm of economics and sustainability, from rising fuel expenses and interest rates to labor costs and intensified competition. Though new players may eventually rise, 2024’s airline casualties have reshaped air travel as we know it.
#8: Mini Clubman
After some seventeen years on the road, the Mini Clubman took its final bow in February 2024. First introduced in 2007, this quirky and versatile wagon became a standout in Mini’s lineup, offering a unique blend of retro styling and practicality. Known for its distinctive split rear doors and compact charm, the Clubman carved out a niche for drivers who wanted more space without sacrificing the iconic Mini aesthetic. However, the Clubman was never a massive commercial success, which led the BMW Group to discontinue its production. Nevertheless, its legacy endures, and drivers will undoubtedly miss this car’s distinctive charm and unexpected practicality.
#7: Google Podcasts
The powerhouse Google brand and the booming podcast industry seem like a natural pairing, right? Apparently not. Launched in 2018, Google Podcasts aimed to provide a streamlined platform for discovering and listening to podcasts, complete with integration into Google Assistant and search. But the platform struggled to compete with giants like Spotify and Apple Podcasts, while YouTube’s popularity as a podcasting hub continued to rise. As a result, Google shut down the app in 2024, opting to consolidate its audio content under the YouTube brand and redirecting users to YouTube Music. This decision marks the end of a brief but notable chapter in Google’s history.
#6: Nintendo Network
In 2024, Nintendo bid farewell to the Nintendo Network – a significant change for its online gaming services. Introduced in 2012, the platform provided players with access to functionalities for the Wii U and Nintendo 3DS, and was a popular avenue for multiplayer gaming, digital downloads, and online communities like Miiverse. But with the rise of the Nintendo Switch and its dedicated Nintendo Switch Online service, the Nintendo Network became increasingly obsolete. Fans of older systems might mourn the loss of this gateway to nostalgic titles, but the move underscores Nintendo’s commitment to its modern gaming ecosystem.
#5: Coca-Cola Cherry Vanilla
Bad news for soda fans: 2024 saw a few changes in the world of this leading beverage brand. Not only have they axed Diet Coke with Splenda, but Coca-Cola has done away with their Cherry Vanilla flavor. This combo hit stores in 2020 after the company learned how many people loved getting creative with concoctions at Coca-Cola Freestyle machines. Although you can’t buy a bottle of Cherry Vanilla Coke at the grocery store anymore, you'll still be able to find the variety on one of those fun Freestyle machines – and if you feel so inclined, you can throw in other flavors, too! Five Guys, anyone?
#4: PlayStation VR Adapter for PlayStation 5
Introduced in 2016, PlayStation’s original VR headset brought immersive gaming to a wider audience, offering hands-on experiences on the PS4 and later on the PS5 through the use of a free adapter. However, as Sony adjusts its focus to the more advanced PlayStation VR2, the older system has been left behind. As of November 2024, the company has discontinued the free adapter program. While the original PS VR revolutionized affordable VR gaming, this move underscores Sony's commitment to its next-generation hardware and the evolution of virtual reality technology. Let’s face it: the writing has been on the wall since the PS VR2’s debut.
#3: Freeform App
If you’re a fan of shows like “Pretty Little Liars” and “grown-ish,” you may have noticed a major change in 2024. In August, Disney discontinued the Freeform app, along with other TV Everywhere services like the ABC, DisneyNOW, and National Geographic TV apps. The Freeform app once provided a convenient way for viewers to catch up on episodes and access exclusive content. Its closure reflects Disney’s shift toward consolidating its offerings under paid platforms, though viewers can still enjoy Freeform shows on Hulu, YouTube TV, and other streaming services. In the evolving landscape of streaming, convenience comes at a price.
#2: Google's Universal Analytics 360
An enterprise-level tool used to track web traffic, Google Analytics is the most widely used service of its kind. It plays a vital role in the daily lives of website owners, marketers, and a plethora of other professionals. In keeping with the corporation’s commitment to staying one step ahead of the latest trends, Google Analytics has undergone many updates since its 2005 inception. Its newest platform, GA4 (Google Analytics 4), reigns supreme as of 2024, boasting more robust features for cross-platform tracking and compliance with stricter data privacy laws. Out with the old Universal Analytics, in with the new GA4.
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
Jaguar XF (X260)
This Luxury Sedan Has Driven off Into the Sunset
Fruit Stripe
Generations of Chewing Have Come to an Halt
Trader Joe's Patio Potato Chips
Thanks to a Fire, These Snacks Are History
Raspberry Rally Girl Scout Cookies
Don’t Worry: Thin Mints Are Staying
Costco Food Court Churros
Sigh. This One Just Hurts.
#1: AirPods (2 & 3)
Since their launch in 2016, Apple’s AirPods have consistently dominated the wireless earbud market. Their success can be attributed to spectacular ease of use, top-notch sound quality, reliable battery life, and features like automatic pairing and hands-free Siri usage. But this is the age of technology, and even the best products are eventually swapped out for newer models. 2024 saw the discontinuation of the second and third generation AirPods, paving the way for AirPods 4. These improved earbuds are developed to fit more comfortably in the ear, and come with a more compact case. Plus, a slightly more expensive version features active noise cancellation. Happy listening!
Which of these do you miss the most? Let’s reminisce in the comments.