Recently, the ongoing debate surrounding the success of video games and how developers can maintain that success has resurfaced. Helldivers 2, despite maintaining a healthy player base, faced criticism for losing 90% of its players. Now, Manor Lords, a city builder that reached the top spot on Steam’s most wishlisted games, is also under scrutiny.
Industry Perspectives Clash
Hinterland’s CEO, Raphael van Lierop, shared his thoughts on Manor Lords’ early access journey on LinkedIn. While the game achieved impressive milestones, such as surpassing 100,000 players upon release and breaking records for concurrent players, it has faced challenges. Despite consistent updates and a solid player base, some concerns have been raised.
Tim Bender, CEO of Manor Lords’ publisher, Hooded Horse, responded to Lierop’s comments, expressing his belief that the industry’s obsession with endless growth expectations can be detrimental. He emphasized the importance of sustainable development practices and cautioned against unrealistic demands on developers.
Both Lierop and Bender have differing perspectives on Manor Lords’ success, leading to a lack of understanding between them. Lierop feels his advice was misinterpreted and his attempts to clarify were hindered by the publisher’s actions. The debate highlights the challenges developers face in meeting player expectations and industry standards.
The Human Element in Game Development
While the discussion on game success continues, it is essential to consider the human element behind game development. Understanding the experiences and challenges faced by developers can lead to more meaningful conversations about the industry’s future.
The debate over game success is not just about numbers and player retention rates; it’s about the people who pour their creativity and effort into these projects. Sustainable development practices and realistic growth expectations are crucial for the well-being of developers and the long-term health of the industry.
As the conversation evolves, it will be interesting to see how different stakeholders in the gaming world address these issues. The balance between achieving commercial success and maintaining a sustainable, healthy development environment remains a delicate one.
