episodic release Archives

AppWizard

June 2, 2026

Subnautica 2’s no-killing policy isn’t because it’s ‘a game about pacifism’, says design lead, but because players would ‘master the crappy combat’ over anything else

Subnautica 2 has sparked controversy due to comments suggesting it lacks traditional combat elements. Design lead Anthony Gallegos explained that the decision to minimize combat is not based on a non-violent ethos but stems from the studio's modding culture origins. He referenced the developers of SOMA, highlighting that combat options could detract from the intended atmosphere of dread and exploration. By removing combat, Subnautica 2 aims to maintain tension and immersion in the underwater world. Gallegos also mentioned the possibility of new mitigation systems in future updates, as the episodic release schedule allows for the introduction of additional gameplay mechanics.

AppWizard

December 2, 2025

Dispatch being ‘basically a live-service game for a month’ did gangbusters, but leads say don’t expect to copy it and get the same result

AdHoc's management simulation game, Dispatch, has gained popularity through its episodic release strategy, which has been praised for maintaining player engagement over time. Executive producer Michael Choung noted that while episodic releases can enhance success, they are not the sole factor; the strength of the game's narrative is crucial. He suggested that a compelling story can make any release format effective, whereas a weak narrative could lead to disappointment, regardless of the episodic structure. The game features a relatively short wait time between episodes, with a weekly release schedule that has helped sustain player enthusiasm.