Challenges Facing Concord's Player Base
In the initial phase of early access, players on PC found it increasingly difficult to join matches without being funneled into console lobbies. Initially, this was perceived as a typical hurdle associated with early access releases. However, as the game transitioned to full availability, the situation has not improved significantly. Currently, the player count for Concord hovers around 96 during off-peak hours, with a peak of 276 players in a 24-hour span and an all-time high of 697, according to SteamDB. These figures paint a rather bleak picture for the game’s first week on PC.
One player expressed their frustration, stating, “I love the game and want to play it. Unfortunately, I can’t wait eight minutes plus between games. [So] I decided to play something else and come back on peak hours. This really doesn’t look promising at all.” This sentiment resonates with many, as lengthy wait times have become a common experience. Over the past weekend, some players reported waiting up to seven minutes to find a match. While such delays are not uncommon in gaming, the question remains whether Concord justifies the wait.
The gameplay itself offers moments of enjoyment, particularly with characters like Haymar and Daw. However, many matches tend to feel repetitive, and the expansive maps can lead to prolonged periods of wandering in search of action. When battles do occur, they often devolve into chaotic exchanges where distinguishing individual abilities becomes a challenge. While the game features appealing cosmetics, the overall experience raises doubts about its value at a price point of £35.
The pricing strategy has drawn criticism since the game’s announcement, with some players advocating for a shift to a free-to-play model. “They need to go F2P; this game won’t last the month, they can’t wait,” one player remarked. While such a transition could potentially increase player numbers, interest during the free beta was not overwhelmingly positive.
Despite the potential benefits of a free-to-play model, a segment of the player base remains resistant to this idea. “F2P is super predatory and lives off kids’ parents’ credit cards,” another player stated. They further emphasized that Concord’s upfront cost comes with the promise of free post-launch content, including maps and heroes, without the burden of battle passes.
While the free-to-play model presents its own set of challenges, the competitive landscape of gaming, filled with numerous free alternatives, suggests that a more accessible approach might be necessary. Many players would likely opt for a selection of free, high-quality team shooters rather than invest in a single title at a premium price, especially when comparable experiences are readily available at no cost.
