The highly anticipated multiplayer hero shooter game, Concord, developed by Firewalk Studios and published by Sony, has been officially released for all platforms. While the deluxe edition owners had early access starting August 20, the game is now accessible to the broader audience. Despite the launch being marked by a dedicated trailer, the game’s reception in terms of player engagement has been underwhelming.
Looking at historical data, other first-party titles from Sony have typically experienced a much higher concurrent player count upon release. Compared to Concord’s current numbers, earlier releases have shown a more robust engagement, both during beta and after the official launch. This discrepancy raises questions about the game’s initial market penetration and long-term retention strategy.
Initial Launch Struggles
As reported by SteamDB, Concord’s peak concurrent player count on Steam is only 697, which is notably low for a major first-party release. This figure is even less than what the game saw during its beta period, which peaked at just over 2000 concurrent players. This decline in engagement indicates that the game might be facing challenges in attracting and retaining its player base.
Upcoming Content Plans
Firewalk Studios and Sony have announced plans to release Concord’s first post-launch season in October. This update will introduce a new Freegunner character, a new map, and additional content. The second season is slated for January next year. The developers hope that these updates will rekindle interest and boost player numbers.
Concord is currently available on both PS5 and PC, and its success will largely depend on the reception of its upcoming content and the ability of the developers to address initial player feedback. Given its current trajectory, the game may need significant updates to attract a more substantial player base and achieve long-term success.
The current data suggests that despite the initial hype, Concord has struggled to maintain player interest. To turn the tide, Firewalk Studios and Sony may need to implement aggressive marketing strategies, frequent content updates, and perhaps even gameplay adjustments based on community feedback. Understanding player preferences and acting swiftly could be crucial in reviving the game’s fortune.
