Moon Studios, the creative force behind the recently launched title No Rest for the Wicked, finds itself at a critical crossroads. The studio’s co-founder, Thomas Mahler, recently shared a candid message on the company’s Discord channel, revealing the dire implications of the game’s current reception. As reported by an observant user on NeoGAF, Mahler expressed concern over the studio’s financial viability following a wave of negative reviews that have significantly impacted sales.
The Impact of Review Bombing
In his message, Mahler emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “I think people think I’m joking when I’m asking for positive reviews because in people’s minds there’s always some big publisher in the background who’ll cover costs.” He clarified that the reality is far different for independent studios like Moon. The lack of favorable feedback has led to a troubling decline in sales, which, in turn, threatens the studio’s future.
Mahler urged fans who appreciate No Rest for the Wicked to consider the importance of their reviews. “If you’re writing here and are enjoying Wicked and are excited for future updates, but haven’t left a positive review, it’s entirely possible that we won’t be around in a couple of months to do anything anymore,” he warned. The stark reality is that the studio’s survival hinges on the support of its community.
He continued, “I wouldn’t ask if our business wouldn’t be dependent on it. I also never write reviews on anything, but if you want to see us actually finish Wicked, it’s detrimental that we get that review score back up.” This heartfelt plea underscores the precarious nature of independent game development, where the success of a title can dictate the fate of the studio behind it.
This situation arises just two months after Moon Studios declared its independence, a significant milestone for the company known for its critically acclaimed Ori series, which has sold over 15 million units. The transition to full independence was celebrated, but the current challenges reveal the harsh realities faced by small studios in a competitive market.
