After five years of popularity among monster hunting enthusiasts, Dauntless will cease operations at the end of May 2025. This decision marks the end of an era for Phoenix Labs, the studio behind the game. Players have enjoyed targeting formidable creatures and engaging in cooperative gameplay, making Dauntless a staple in the genre. However, recent challenges have led to this closure, impacting both the development team and the game’s community.
Since its launch, Dauntless was often hailed as the PC equivalent of Monster Hunter, attracting a dedicated player base. The introduction of Monster Hunter: World shortly after Dauntless’ release shifted the competitive landscape. Dauntless initially thrived but struggled to maintain its momentum against the established franchise, which offered a more polished experience.
What Led to Dauntless’ Declining Popularity?
The release of Monster Hunter: World introduced a superior alternative that overshadowed Dauntless. Additionally, Phoenix Labs faced internal challenges, including significant layoffs in May 2024. The studio’s decision to end development on new projects was a strategic move to preserve its operations amidst declining support for Dauntless.
How Did the Steam Transition Affect the Game?
In December, Dauntless transitioned from the Epic Games Store to Steam, hoping to attract a larger audience. Instead, the update led to widespread dissatisfaction.
“Dauntless will receive no additional content or updates. The game will no longer be available to play on May 29, 2025,”
Phoenix Labs announced, highlighting the cessation of support. The reset of player progress and unpopular monetization changes resulted in negative reviews, further diminishing the game’s appeal.
What Were the Community’s Reactions?
The Dauntless community expressed frustration, attributing the game’s decline to Phoenix Labs’ acquisition by crypto company Forte in 2023. This acquisition was largely unnoticed until a 2024 report shed light on its impact. The upcoming release of Monster Hunter: Wild has also contributed to the unfavorable outlook for Dauntless, making a recovery difficult.
Phoenix Labs has not provided updates regarding the fate of Fae Farm, their other project. The uncertainty surrounding Fae Farm adds to the concerns about the studio’s future. The shift in focus and resources following the Steam transition has left many questions unanswered about the long-term plans for their other titles.
Phoenix Labs’ decision to close Dauntless reflects broader trends in the gaming industry, where competition and strategic missteps can significantly impact a game’s lifecycle. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for both developers and players in navigating the evolving landscape of online gaming.
