Tag: Xbox Game Pass

  • Indiana Jones Success Doesn’t Equal Big Profits, Reports 6% Margin

    Indiana Jones Success Doesn’t Equal Big Profits, Reports 6% Margin

    Key Takeaways

    1. Machine Games reported a net margin of 6% for 2024, with net sales of $44.325 million and a net profit of $2.679 million.
    2. The financial report does not specify the success or failure of individual games, including Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, due to its launch on Xbox Game Pass.
    3. Operating expenses for Machine Games reached $41.53 million, highlighting the challenges in profitability amid high development costs.
    4. The studio’s net sales decreased from a peak of $49.1 million in 2021, indicating a decline despite a major game release.
    5. Future job cuts and increased pressure for profitability are anticipated within Microsoft’s Xbox division, affecting the direction of projects and studios.

    Machine Games, the Swedish team known for the Wolfenstein series and the well-received Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, has reported a modest 6% net margin for the year 2024.

    Financial Findings

    The financial details were uncovered by Timur222 and shared by Derek Strickland from TweakTown on X on July 20. For 2024, Machine Games noted net sales of $44.325 million and a net profit of $2.679 million.

    Challenges Ahead

    This year has been tough for Xbox’s first-party studio, which received praise for its stunning Ray-Tracing and visual fidelity, especially in the introductory sequence of Raiders of the Lost Ark.

    However, the financial report doesn’t clearly indicate any triumph or failure of specific games or projects from Machine Games. This ambiguity arises because Machine Games is a subsidiary of ZeniMax Media, which encompasses all entities under Bethesda, including Arkane, BGS, id Software, and ZeniMax Online.

    Revenue Uncertainties

    The revenue from Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is somewhat unclear in the 2024 financial overview, as the game launched on Xbox Game Pass from day one, which often leads to decreased direct sales. The report also stated that operating expenses reached $41.53 million, leaving minimal room for profit in an industry where development budgets can quickly exceed $100 million.

    In contrast, Machine Games hit a peak net sales figure of $49.1 million in 2021, highlighting that 2024 represented a decline even with a significant AAA launch. The studio’s 6% revenue margin is quite low compared to other big players like Nintendo, which announced a 30% profit on $11.6 billion in revenue for the 2024 fiscal year.

    Future Prospects

    With over 9,100 layoffs at Microsoft in recent times, further job cuts seem likely. Margins are becoming increasingly important, and pressure is mounting on various developers under Microsoft’s Xbox division, even as reports suggest that comparisons are being made to Microsoft’s more profitable Azure business segment.

    While ZeniMax Media generally enjoys some freedom from Microsoft’s oversight regarding financial matters and staffing, the fate of project cancellations and studio closures ultimately lies with Xbox and Microsoft. This has put them in a position to focus on maximizing profits since the beginning of 2025.

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  • Award-Nominated Prison RPG Launches with 15% Discount on Steam

    Award-Nominated Prison RPG Launches with 15% Discount on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Unique Setting and Characters: The game features a high-security prison with anthropomorphic animals, allowing players to choose between two main characters—Thomas, a journalist, and Bob, an undercover agent—each with their own storylines.

    2. Gameplay Depth and Mechanics: Players engage in a mix of RPG elements, including quests, mini-games, stat management, and social interactions, where choices impact relationships and narrative outcomes.

    3. Community Influence: The early access phase allowed player feedback to shape the game, leading to new questlines, side missions, and overall gameplay enhancements.

    4. Positive Reception: The game has received nominations and recognition in the indie gaming scene, achieving “Very Positive” reviews on Steam after its full release.

    5. Content and Availability: With over 100 quests and multiple story endings, “Back to the Dawn” is available on PC and consoles for $16.99, with a special discount during launch, and is also verified for Steam Deck.

    Back to the Dawn is a unique RPG about escaping prison, created by Metal Head Games and published by Spiral Up Games. It’s now available on PC and consoles. The game immerses players in a high-security prison filled with anthropomorphic animals, emphasizing survival, social interactions, and story-driven gameplay. Players can select from two main characters – Thomas, a journalist wrongfully accused, and Bob, an undercover agent. Each character has their own narrative that spans over 20 hours and presents various endings.

    Release Timeline

    The game first entered early access on November 3, 2023, and the complete 1.0 version was launched on July 18, 2025. The early access phase aimed to enhance the core gameplay, incorporate community feedback, and add more story elements. According to developer blogs, the community played a significant role in shaping new questlines, side missions, and overall polish. This timeframe also saw a content update that introduced a second main character.

    Gameplay and Mechanics

    Back to the Dawn has been praised for its intricate RPG elements, blending traditional quests with mini-games, stat management, and social simulation. Choices made by players influence relationships between different prison factions, affecting both escape strategies and narrative outcomes. Reviewers have noted the game’s attention to detail, including subtle interactions and changes in the environment, as well as unexpected spikes in difficulty later on. While the story and gameplay depth have received consistent acclaim, some players have criticized the challenging gameplay moments that arise as the narrative develops.

    Reception and Features

    The game has gained notable recognition, including nominations at the Independent Games Festival and various indie award lists. Following its 1.0 update, Back to the Dawn experienced a wave of “Very Positive” reviews on Steam. Launch day also marked its debut on Xbox Game Pass, as mentioned in previous coverage. For those playing on the Steam Deck (currently priced at $785 on Amazon), it’s worth noting that the game is verified for this handheld device.

    With over 100 unique quests, diverging storylines influenced by player choices, and a mix of prison-life simulation with investigative gameplay, Back to the Dawn is carving its place in the indie RPG genre. You can watch the game trailer below and visit the Steam store page here. It’s available now for $16.99, which includes a 15% discount during launch.

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  • Xbox Game Pass: 3 New Games, 2 Day-One Releases & Soulslike Adventure

    Xbox Game Pass: 3 New Games, 2 Day-One Releases & Soulslike Adventure

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft added four new games to Xbox Game Pass, including a story-rich shooter, a horror title, an RPG, and a first-person shooter.
    2. “Abiotic Factor” is a co-op sci-fi survival adventure where players must survive against alien invaders and utilize distinct character skills.
    3. “Wheel World” is a unique racing game where players ride bicycles, customize them, and complete challenges to unlock upgrades.
    4. “Wuchang: Fallen Feathers” is an action RPG set in war-torn China, featuring adaptable combat and deep weapon and spell customization.
    5. Next week’s Game Pass additions will include at least two new releases available from launch.

    Between July 15 and 18, Microsoft introduced four new games into Xbox Game Pass: a story-rich shooter, a horror title, an RPG, and an exciting first-person shooter. While only three titles are set to arrive next week, at least two of them will be fresh releases available on Game Pass right from the start.

    Co-op Sci-Fi Adventure

    Abiotic Factor is a cooperative sci-fi survival adventure taking place in a high-security research facility. After a failed experiment opens rifts between dimensions, alien beings start to invade the lab. With security measures breaking down, the employees must fend for themselves. What begins as a normal day quickly turns into a fight for survival.

    Players step into the shoes of scientists focused on one main objective: staying alive. Up to six players can join forces to collect materials, create tools, build shelters, and defend against mutated creatures. Each character has distinct skills—like tech know-how, culinary expertise, or medical training—that are essential for the group’s survival. Success hinges on research, crafting, and makeshift equipment. The game visually draws inspiration from classic sci-fi environments like Half-Life, sprinkled with a hint of humor.

    Unique Racing Experience

    Wheel World presents a third-person adventure racing experience with a unique spin—you won’t be driving a car, but rather riding a bicycle. The plot centers around a young cyclist named Kat, who is chosen by ancient cycling spirits to save the enigmatic Wheel World from destruction. To bring harmony back to the universe, she must find legendary bike components and perform the sacred ritual known as the Great Shift.

    Players will traverse expansive, semi-open areas on their bikes, discovering hidden treasures and racing against elite teams and quirky competitors. Bikes can be extensively customized, featuring a variety of parts—from speed-enhancing gear to off-road improvements. Races focus on smart positioning, slipstreaming, and well-timed boosts, while tricks offer an additional speed burst. Completing challenges grants you “Rep,” increases racing experience, and unlocks new features and upgrades.

    Dark Action RPG Adventure

    Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is a somber action RPG in the vein of Soulslike games, set against the backdrop of war-torn China during the last years of the Ming Dynasty. You take on the role of the pirate Bai Wuchang, who suffers from a strange illness that turns people into terrifying monsters. As she travels through crumbling temples and plague-infested towns, her quest is to uncover the origin of the curse.

    The game features adaptable combat that prioritizes fast-paced, aggressive gameplay. Players can select from over 25 types of weapons and mix them with 40 different spells for deep customization. The unique Skyborn system introduces powerful special moves into the action. Instead of relying on traditional blocking, combat focuses on movement, timing, and offense. The interconnected world invites exploration, while Unreal Engine 5 enhances Wuchang’s stunning and atmospheric graphics.

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  • Unique and Hilarious FPS Launches on Xbox Game Pass This Week

    Unique and Hilarious FPS Launches on Xbox Game Pass This Week

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox Game Pass subscribers received three new titles, including a remastered bundle from the 2000s, with “High on Life” being the only confirmed game for the third week of July.
    2. “High on Life,” created by Justin Roiland, features wacky humor and an outrageous story involving an alien drug cartel invading Earth.
    3. Players take on the role of a teenager turned bounty hunter, using talking weapons with unique personalities to combat alien foes.
    4. The game has received mixed reviews, scoring 6.5/10 from 4Players, while Steam users rated it “Very Positive” with an average score of 89%.
    5. “High on Life” will be available on Xbox Game Pass starting July 15 for cloud, console, and PC.

    Last week, Xbox Game Pass subscribers welcomed three fresh titles, featuring a remastered bundle of two iconic games from the 2000s. For the third week of July, there is only one game that has been confirmed: the eccentric first-person shooter High on Life, created by Justin Roiland, known for co-creating Rick and Morty. Nevertheless, it’s likely that Microsoft will add more games to the lineup and announce additional titles soon.

    Humor and Adventure Await

    If you’re into Rick and Morty, you’ll probably find High on Life pretty enjoyable, as the humor is just as wacky and exaggerated. The story is as outrageous as it appears: Earth gets invaded by an alien drug cartel that uses humans to get their next high. You take on the role of an average teenager who unexpectedly becomes a bounty hunter tasked with taking down the alien gang. To assist you in your quest, you’ll have a variety of talking weapons – each with its distinct personality. They continuously crack jokes and respond to almost everything you do or don’t do.

    Gameplay and Reception

    In High on Life, players hop between planets to track down strange alien bosses, blast through sticky outposts, and gather new upgrades, resources, and more of the game’s lively, animated weapons. Each success brings you closer to defeating Garmantuous – the merciless head of the alien cartel. As reported by the German gaming magazine 4Players, the game excels with its outrageous humor, though the shooting mechanics could use some work, giving it a score of 6.5 out of 10. In contrast, the reception on Steam has been far more favorable, with over 16,000 reviews averaging a “Very Positive” rating of 89%. Metacritic offers a more nuanced view: a critic Metascore of 69 and a User Score of 7.4.

    Availability on Xbox Game Pass

    High on Life will join Xbox Game Pass starting July 15, making it accessible through cloud, console, and PC. You can catch a first look at the game’s crazy charm in the trailer below.

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  • Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass Game Costs Exceed $50 Million

    Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass Game Costs Exceed $50 Million

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft includes all first-party titles on Game Pass at launch and adds popular third-party games, enhancing subscriber value.
    2. The cost to acquire games for Game Pass ranges from $50,000 to over $50 million, indicating significant financial investment.
    3. Despite high costs, Game Pass is reportedly still profitable for Microsoft.
    4. The increasing expenses of developing AAA games pose challenges for sustaining current acquisition rates.
    5. Microsoft may need to consider raising subscription prices or focusing on indie/AA games to manage costs and meet financial goals.

    Ever since Xbox Game Pass started, many have been trying to guess how much money Microsoft spends to keep the service filled with great games. All first-party titles from Microsoft are now available on Game Pass on their release day, and the company has also been bringing in big third-party games like Expedition 33 right at launch.

    Great for Subscribers

    The inclusion of highly expected third-party games is beneficial for Game Pass, providing subscribers with popular content. However, it raises serious concerns about how sustainable this approach is. Just how much is Microsoft really paying to ensure major game launches for Game Pass? Can they keep this up in the long term?

    A Surprising Discovery

    A sharp-eyed user on X, Timur222, spotted something intriguing about the costs of Xbox Game Pass games in the LinkedIn profile of Iain MacIntyre, a recently dismissed Senior Business Development Manager at Microsoft. He noted that MacIntyre “negotiated over 500 deals ranging from $50,000 to more than $50 million, securing both indie hits and AAA titles for Game Pass.”

    Thus, it seems that Microsoft shells out between $50k and a staggering $50m or even more to acquire games for Game Pass. But this doesn’t necessarily mean that the service is draining Microsoft’s finances, as it is reportedly still making money.

    Future Uncertainties

    The range of costs per title suggests the challenges of maintaining the current speed of acquisitions in the future. Developing AAA games is notoriously pricey and has only gotten more expensive in recent years. With the average AAA title now taking several years to finish and costing tens of millions, if not hundreds of millions, Microsoft will have to invest even more to secure blockbuster titles for Game Pass.

    To address this issue, the company might consider raising Game Pass subscription prices, which seems likely since Xbox has to meet strict financial goals, or they could choose to focus more on indie or AA games instead of AAA deals. No matter what path they choose, one thing is evident: Xbox faces a tough road ahead.

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    Microsoft's Xbox Game Pass Game Costs Exceed $50 Million
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  • Microsoft Faces Accusations of Misleading Xbox Game Pass Profit Claims

    Microsoft Faces Accusations of Misleading Xbox Game Pass Profit Claims

    Key Takeaways

    1. Phil Spencer claims Xbox Game Pass is financially sustainable, but critics question its viability due to high costs.
    2. Christopher Dring suggests Microsoft may be overlooking significant losses from first-party game development when assessing Game Pass profits.
    3. There are doubts about the accuracy of Spencer’s claims regarding Game Pass revenue, with some gamers feeling misled.
    4. Microsoft’s acquisitions of studios for Game Pass have led to job cuts, raising concerns about the service’s impact on the gaming industry.
    5. Uncertainties remain about the financial effects of Game Pass, with potential for increased subscription fees and a reduced variety of games.

    Critics often question how Xbox Game Pass can be financially viable given the numerous costs involved. Phil Spencer, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, asserts that the service yields sustainable profits. However, Christoper Dring from The Game Business has suggested that Microsoft might be using questionable accounting practices. It seems the company overlooks the lost earnings that its studios face when they release Xbox games on Game Pass.

    Possible Losses

    Dring elaborates that Microsoft accounts for expenses related to third-party titles, marketing, and service fees. Nevertheless, he believes that when first-party development costs are taken into account, Xbox Game Pass could actually be operating at a loss.

    Misleading Claims?

    Gamers have started to accuse Phil Spencer of giving a distorted view of the financial status of Game Pass. Back in October 2022, Spencer stated that Game Pass accounted for 15% of the overall gaming revenue for the company. While he had expected Game Pass to continue being profitable, those claims now seem doubtful.

    Industry Impact

    In the last few years, Microsoft has purchased several studios to create games that launch on Xbox Game Pass on day one. Unfortunately, many of these developers have recently faced job cuts at Microsoft. Studios like The Initiative, known for the highly anticipated Perfect Dark, have been affected. This situation led Raphael Colantonio, the founder of the now-closed Arcane Studios, to criticize Game Pass as harmful to the gaming industry.

    There are still uncertainties about how the Game Pass subscription model affects finances. Some games may thrive under this model, while others could earn more through a regular pricing structure. Nevertheless, critics argue that Dring’s findings suggest that Microsoft made unwise investments. The layoffs at Xbox Game Studios might stem from these decisions, which could result in a reduced variety of games for players.

    Awaiting a Response

    Microsoft has yet to provide an official statement concerning Dring’s findings. However, in light of the new information, many fans are expecting even steeper subscription fees for Game Pass. Microsoft may also come to the conclusion that pouring its significant resources into this service is no longer a smart move.

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    Microsoft Faces Accusations of Misleading Xbox Game Pass Profit Claims
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  • Arkane Studios Founder Links Xbox Game Pass to Microsoft Job Losses

    Arkane Studios Founder Links Xbox Game Pass to Microsoft Job Losses

    Key Takeaways

    1. Raphael Colantonio criticizes Xbox Game Pass as an unsustainable model harming the gaming industry.
    2. Despite claims of profitability, many studios creating games for Game Pass are struggling, with notable closures like Arkane Studios and The Initiative.
    3. Phil Spencer acknowledges slowing growth in Game Pass subscriptions, raising questions about its long-term viability.
    4. Opinions among gamers are divided; some blame Game Pass for layoffs, while others point to poor management and spending issues.
    5. Game Pass subscribers are canceling memberships in protest, suggesting a need for better curation of titles added to the service.

    Following the layoff of 9,000 workers at Microsoft, which has greatly affected Xbox Game Studios, the search for someone to blame has begun. Many developers from studios that Microsoft has shut down have voiced their concerns. Raphael Colantonio, who founded Arkane Studios but left in 2017 before its closure in 2024, took to social media to argue that Xbox Game Pass has played a role in causing instability within the gaming industry.

    Colantonio’s New Role

    Currently, Colantonio is the President and Creative Director at the independent Wolfeye Studios. He expanded on his earlier remarks by stating, “I think Gamepass is an unsustainable model that has increasingly been damaging the industry for a decade, funded by MS’s ‘infinite money’, but at some point, reality has to hit. I don’t believe GP can exist along with other models; they’ll either eliminate everyone else or back down.”

    Questions About Sustainability

    In 2022, Phil Spencer mentioned that Xbox Game Pass is making money, but there have been indications of slowing growth in subscriptions. Colantonio doubts the sustainability of this model compared to traditional methods, such as charging full prices for games.

    Even though there are profits, many studios that create games for Xbox Game Pass are not doing well. Arkane Studios is a case in point; its game Redfall launched on Game Pass right on its release day. Additionally, Hi-Fi Rush, despite its positive reception, did not save Tango Gameworks from being shut down by Microsoft. More recent closures include The Initiative, before it could launch Perfect Dark on Game Pass.

    Diverse Opinions Among Gamers

    However, not all players agree with Colantonio’s view that Game Pass is a significant reason behind Microsoft’s job cuts. Some observers attribute these layoffs to reckless spending and inadequate management of quickly acquired studios. Another consideration is Microsoft’s growing dependence on AI; analysts suspect the company might already be using AI tools to replace essential employees in game development.

    In the meantime, some Game Pass subscribers are canceling their memberships in protest. For certain members, the overall harm to the industry might outweigh the convenience offered by access to AAA titles on their release day. Other gamers are urging Microsoft to be more discerning about what gets added to the service, as not every Xbox Game Pass game is suited for a monthly subscription. Colantonio suggested that classics and older titles should continue to be a mainstay in its offerings.

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    Arkane Studios Founder Links Xbox Game Pass to Microsoft Job Losses

     

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  • RCE Exploit Hacks Call of Duty: WW2 Players on Xbox Game Pass

    RCE Exploit Hacks Call of Duty: WW2 Players on Xbox Game Pass

    Key Takeaways

    1. Call of Duty: WW2 has joined Xbox Game Pass, leading to a surge in players and exposing serious security vulnerabilities.
    2. A Remote Code Execution (RCE) exploit allows hackers to take control of players’ computers, potentially stealing personal data or installing harmful software.
    3. Players have reported alarming incidents, including inappropriate content appearing on screens and unexpected pop-up messages confirming successful exploits.
    4. The gaming community is advising against using multiplayer modes in Call of Duty: WW2 due to the security risks, while Microsoft and Activision have not responded to concerns.
    5. Previous Call of Duty games have faced similar hacking issues, leading some players to seek third-party solutions to address security flaws.

    Call of Duty: WW2 has recently joined Xbox Game Pass, marking the latest first-person shooter from Activision to become available. This title from 2017 is seeing a significant rise in players, but it’s also bringing to light a serious security issue. Many gamers are sharing their experiences on social media about a Remote Code Execution (RCE) exploit that they encountered while playing online. These events underscore the dangers of including an older game in a popular subscription service without necessary security updates.

    The Risks of RCE Exploits

    The RCE hack allows malicious individuals to take over another player’s computer. When this exploit is activated, the potential damage can be extensive. Participants of Call of Duty: WW2 might find their personal data stolen or malicious software installed unknowingly. In some instances, the exploit can harm the operating system to such an extent that a complete reinstall becomes essential.

    Player Experiences with the Exploit

    As reported by CyberInsider, one player of Call of Duty: WW2 recounted a shocking incident where inappropriate content appeared on their secondary monitor. Another player noticed a Notepad window that unexpectedly popped up, displaying a message that confirmed a successful exploit. Luckily, these players have so far managed to avoid severe consequences. However, if a hacker gains access to sensitive information like passwords or bank details, the effects could take weeks to become apparent.

    Community Response and Developer Silence

    Players are advising others to steer clear of multiplayer modes in the newly added Xbox Game Pass title. So far, neither Microsoft nor Activision has commented on this serious matter. Interestingly, several Call of Duty titles went offline for maintenance on July 2nd, but it remains uncertain whether any updates included security enhancements.

    Adding to gamers’ frustrations, similar hacks and exploits have plagued earlier Call of Duty games. Some fans have turned to third-party launchers that fix these security vulnerabilities. Players are frustrated that developers did not address these issues prior to making the game available to a large Xbox Game Pass audience.

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  • Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 and 4 Join Game Pass in July

    Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 and 4 Join Game Pass in July

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox Game Pass will feature Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 on day one for Ultimate and PC subscribers starting July 11, 2025.
    2. The lineup includes both new indie titles and returning fan-favorite games.
    3. Six games will be leaving the service mid-month, with a 20% discount available for subscribers on those titles.
    4. July 2025 offers a diverse selection of action, adventure, horror, RPGs, and nostalgic classics.
    5. The update continues Microsoft’s commitment to providing a varied content library for Xbox Game Pass.

    Microsoft has revealed its first batch of Xbox Game Pass games for July 2025, showcasing an exciting blend of action, adventure, horror, RPGs, and nostalgic classics. The highlight of this lineup is Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4, which will be available on day one for Ultimate and PC subscribers beginning July 11.

    New and Returning Titles

    Alongside this major release, the update also reintroduces several fan-favorite games and includes fresh indie titles. Below is the full list of games coming to Game Pass this month –

    According to the official statement, six games will be leaving the service in the middle of the month. Subscribers to Game Pass can enjoy a 20% discount on these games before they are taken off, so those interested should hurry.

    A Diverse Lineup

    July’s impressive selection aligns with Microsoft’s commitment to providing a varied content library. Last month, titles such as World of Warcraft Classics, Crash Bandicoot 4, and Call of Duty: WWII were added to the platform. With a great mix of classic franchises, remastered games, and new indie experiences, July 2025 is poised to be one of the most diverse months for Xbox Game Pass.

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  • FBC Firebreak Reaches 1 Million Players Amid Mixed Reviews

    FBC Firebreak Reaches 1 Million Players Amid Mixed Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. Milestone Achievement: FBC: Firebreak reached over one million players within a week of launch, largely due to availability on Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus.

    2. Shift in Focus: The game marks Remedy’s departure from single-player experiences, connecting to their previous titles and set in the Remedy Connected Universe.

    3. Player Engagement Issues: Despite the player count, many gamers report a lack of content and confusing systems, with some completing the game in just a couple of days.

    4. Critical Feedback: Players and critics have noted issues such as poor tutorials and matchmaking problems, leading to a “Mixed” review score on Steam.

    5. Community Concerns: There is debate over how player numbers are counted, with many speculating that most players are using subscription services rather than making direct purchases.

    Remedy Entertainment’s first foray into multiplayer gaming with FBC: Firebreak has been quite the rollercoaster. Just a week after its launch on June 17, the game has welcomed over one million players across all platforms.

    In a post on their X account, Remedy expressed gratitude to all the ‘Firebreakers’ and promised upcoming content and improvements. While reaching a million players is a notable feat, the journey to get there has had its share of challenges.

    A Shift from Single-Player

    FBC: Firebreak marks a significant change from Remedy’s traditional single-player titles like Control and Alan Wake. Set six years after the events of Control, it connects to the Remedy Connected Universe as players explore the enigmatic Oldest House.

    The Numbers Game

    However, hitting the one million milestone comes with a twist. A large part of this player influx is due to the game’s availability on Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus’s Extra tier. It’s likely that many players are jumping in for a brief experience rather than fully committing to the game.

    This assumption is backed by data from SteamDB, which indicates that FBC: Firebreak had only 78 players online at the time of this writing, with a peak of 169 over the past 24 hours. This is a significant decrease from the all-time high of 1,992 players recorded just ten days ago. Currently, the game holds a “Mixed” review score on Steam with 1,511 user assessments, of which 65.69% are positive.

    Critic Feedback and Player Experience

    For many critics and gamers, engaging with the game has felt akin to taking on a second job. The absence of helpful tutorials, confusing progression systems, and matchmaking problems have drawn much criticism. Some players have reported completing the game’s content in just a day or two, which leaves them little motivation to join another raid.

    While the concept of an FPS within the chaotic Remedy Connected Universe is appealing, the actual execution has left some players divided. Remedy has acknowledged the feedback and has already addressed several issues with patches. The studio has promised to introduce balance updates along with new in-game elements, such as weapons, locations, and missions, later this year.

    Community Reactions

    The announcement of the million-player mark has ignited discussions within the gaming community. Many are questioning whether Remedy is counting unique logins, downloads, or active players. There’s speculation that a minimal portion of the player base consists of direct purchases, whereas a larger segment is exploring the game through services like Xbox Game Pass or PlayStation Plus.

    FBC: Firebreak appears to be grappling with a typical case of “early access syndrome.” Remedy is in the process of taking player feedback into account and preparing their next patch for the game. The pressing question remains: can the studio execute a turnaround before the gaming community’s patience runs out?

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