When Sony announced “Concord,” a new first-person shooter developed by Firewalk Studios, expectations were high. Here was a game set to enter the competitive arena of hero shooters, a genre dominated by titles like “Overwatch” and “Valorant.” However, what was intended to be a tent-pole title for PlayStation 5 and PC became one of gaming’s most discussed failures in 2024. The reasons for its downfall are multifaceted, but one controversial aspect stands out: an overemphasis on diversity and inclusion at the expense of core game development.
The Vision and The Reality
“Concord” was pitched as a game where diversity wasn’t just a backdrop but a central theme. Characters from various backgrounds, an array of pronouns, and an inclusive narrative were heavily promoted. While the intention behind this focus was to reflect a broader player base and perhaps attract a new audience, the execution led to what players have called a “catastrophic failure.”
Insiders from Firewalk Studios, as reported by various gaming news outlets, pointed towards a culture of “toxic positivity” where negative feedback, especially concerning the game’s direction towards diversity, was not just discouraged but often outright dismissed. This environment led to a game where the narrative and character design were so focused on inclusivity that fundamental aspects like gameplay mechanics, map design, and overall game balance were neglected.
The gaming community, while diverse, predominantly looks for engaging gameplay, compelling stories, and fair monetization models. “Concord” launched at a $40 price point, a bold move in a market where most competitors are free-to-play. This decision, coupled with the game’s lack of innovation in gameplay, made it a hard sell. The focus on diversity, while laudable, was perceived by many as a marketing gimmick rather than a genuine aspect of game design, especially when the game itself failed to deliver on the fun factor.
Upon release, “Concord” saw dismal player numbers, barely cracking 700 concurrent players on Steam during its launch weekend, a stark contrast to the tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands seen by successful titles. Critics and players noted that while the game’s characters were diverse, they were also forgettable, lacking the depth or charisma found in competitors. The gameplay felt dated, the movement slow, and the overall experience underbaked.
An Expensive Lesson for Sony which they probably won’t Learn
Sony’s decision to take “Concord” offline and refund purchases was unprecedented but indicative of the game’s failure to resonate with players. This move was not just a financial decision but a statement on the miscalculation of prioritizing social agendas over game quality. The game’s director stepping down and the discussions around potential layoffs at Firewalk Studios further highlighted the internal recognition of where things went wrong.
The failure of “Concord” underscores the need for developers to listen to all feedback, not just that which aligns with a particular vision or corporate mandate. Games are an art form, but they are also products in a highly competitive market. Ignoring the fundamentals of what makes a game enjoyable in pursuit of an ideological goal can lead to commercial and critical failure.
In conclusion, while “Concord” aimed to break new ground with its diverse cast and inclusive storytelling, it ultimately failed by not grounding these elements in a solid, engaging gameplay experience. This debacle might make other studios think twice about how they integrate social themes into their games, ensuring they enhance rather than detract from the player’s experience. Sony’s misadventure with “Concord” might well be remembered not for its diversity, but for how it forgot that first and foremost, a game must be fun to play.
