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The Day Before studio reportedly sues Russian website for calling infamous disaster-game a ‘scam’
First reported by 80 Level, the studio behind The Day Before, Fntastic, has initiated legal action against Yakutia.info, a news outlet based in the founders’ native Yakutia region of Siberia. The lawsuit alleges that Yakutia.info has tarnished Fntastic’s reputation by labeling its actions regarding The Day Before as a “scam.”
Details of the Allegations
The claims stem from a specific article on Yakutia.info that described Fntastic’s conduct as a “scam,” alongside another piece that paraphrased comments from YouTube influencers accusing the game of borrowing mechanics from other titles. Yakutia.info has since clarified its position, asserting that the term “scam” is a relatively new addition to the Russian lexicon and that it did not intend to imply fraudulent behavior. In response to the backlash, the site amended both articles, replacing “scam” with “embarrassment” and opting to quote the influencers directly rather than paraphrasing their remarks.
As the lawsuit unfolds, Yakutia.info may find itself tasked with demonstrating that Fntastic’s actions were not merely misguided but criminal in nature. This presents a challenging burden of proof, particularly in light of the game’s troubled history.
The Broader Context
Fntastic’s reputation has taken a significant hit, especially considering the widespread criticism of The Day Before. Once the most-wishlisted game on Steam, it has since been described as a buggy and incomplete experience, leading to its temporary removal from the platform. While the use of the term “scam” may be contentious, the chorus of disapproval from influencers and gamers alike raises questions about the studio’s standing in the industry.
Compounding these issues are Fntastic’s communication challenges with its player base, lofty promises regarding the game’s development, and the controversial use of “volunteer” labor. The studio’s attempts to navigate these turbulent waters will be closely observed, particularly during the discovery phase of the lawsuit.
Despite the setbacks, Fntastic remains committed to its craft. Last September, the studio struggled to secure funding for a new project on Kickstarter, garnering only ,351 of a nearly ,000 target. In a bid to revitalize its efforts, Fntastic has announced a new initiative, once again calling for designers to contribute to its game by competing for the inclusion of their maps.