This is the problem with multiplayer games – development is a massive risk, as shown here. The gameplay could be smooth, the maps interesting, the character options engaging… But if the player count isn’t there, none of those things matter a single iota. And once a multiplayer game has passed into the low-player-count category, there is next to zero chance its sales will ever pick up (even if the developers implement improvements).
At least with single player games, you’re investing in something you’re going to be able to enjoy to the full extent of the developers’ vision and implementation of that vision.
So many companies are having to make layoffs and budget cuts at the moment, but I wonder how much of that could have been avoided if they hadn’t poured money into trying to make the next Fortnite or Overwatch.
