Concord’s Early Access Struggles
During Concord’s early access phase, it was noticeably challenging for PC players to find games without queuing in console lobbies. Initially, I gave Concord the benefit of the doubt and chalked it up to a slow start in early access. Unfortunately, the situation has not improved since the game became publicly available. Currently, there are only 96 players in Concord. While it is off-peak hours, having a 24-hour peak of 276 and an all-time peak of 697 on SteamDB is quite concerning. It’s evident that Concord has had a tepid first week on PC.
The Impact on PC Players
There are no public records for player counts on PlayStation, so the data we have is mainly from PC. PC players have reported significantly long queue times, especially when not queuing with console players. One player stated, “I just waited eight minutes for matchmaking, and then it timed out. I love the game and want to play it, but I can’t wait eight minutes plus between games. So, I decided to play something else and come back during peak hours. This really doesn’t look promising.” I have experienced similar wait times over the last weekend, reaching about seven minutes before finding a game. Although not unbearable, such long wait times can deter players, especially for a game that costs $40/£35.
Gameplay and Economic Considerations
Concord’s gameplay is enjoyable but not exceptional. The games are fun, if somewhat chaotic, and the maps feel too large, leading to a lot of time spent walking around looking for fights. The chaotic nature of battles, where everyone’s abilities blend into a larger mess, also detracts from the experience.
The cosmetic features in Concord are quite appealing, but this alone may not justify the hefty price tag. Criticism over the upfront cost arose immediately upon announcement, and some believe transitioning to a free-to-play (F2P) model could remedy its launch issues. A F2P model might help boost player numbers, although the free beta didn’t generate massive interest. However, this approach has its critics who argue that F2P models can be predatory and exploitative.
Future Prospects
Despite the drawbacks, some players prefer the current model, as it includes free post-launch content, unlike many F2P games that rely on battle passes. Nonetheless, in a market flooded with free and high-quality team shooters, charging a premium price seems like a risky strategy. If I had to choose between numerous free team shooters and risking £35 on Concord, I would likely opt for the former. This sentiment is shared by many players, emphasizing the need for strategic reconsideration by Firewalk Studios.
