The video game industry has recently witnessed one of the most significant failures in recent years with the downfall of Fntastic, the studio behind the MMO “The Day Before”. After a much-anticipated launch, the game’s early access phase turned out to be a disaster, leading to the studio’s closure.
The Day Before’s Disastrous Launch
Back in 2021, Fntastic announced “The Day Before”, generating significant hype with its post-apocalyptic setting reminiscent of “The Last of Us”. However, the early access launch two years later revealed a product vastly different from what was promised.
Immediate Backlash
Upon release, “The Day Before” was met with a barrage of negative reviews on Steam. Players criticized the game for not living up to MMO standards, citing generic mechanics and a dull environment. This led to a staggering 75% drop in player count during its opening weekend.
Fntastic’s Response and Closure
Facing a launch crisis, Fntastic issued a statement on social media, acknowledging the financial failure of “The Day Before”. The studio confirmed that they had exhausted their resources and would be shutting down, with all game revenues directed towards settling debts.
The Downfall of Fntastic, developer of The Day Before:
The recent shutdown of Fntastic, serves as a caution for the gaming community.
The Day Before released to overwhelmingly negative reviews, highlights several lessons gamers can take away from this experience.
Hype and… pic.twitter.com/1UYR8poIIt
— NikTek (@NikTekOfficial) December 11, 2023
Official Statement Highlights
“We invested our heart, resources, and countless hours into the development of ‘The Day Before’, our first major title. We aspired to release new patches to unveil the full potential of the game, but unfortunately, we lack the funds to continue,” read part of the statement. “We apologize if we didn’t meet your expectations. We did everything we could, but sadly misjudged our capabilities.”
Fntastic Shuts Down Following The Day Before’s Failed Launch
The closure of Fntastic and the demise of “The Day Before” serve as a stark reminder of the challenges in game development. This scenario highlights the importance of accurate project scope assessment and managing community expectations. It’s a cautionary tale for both developers and players in the ever-evolving gaming landscape.