Concord, a new hero shooter priced at $40, has entered a bustling market of competitive multiplayer games. Despite obtaining mostly positive reviews on Steam, the game has faced a shaky start on PC, peaking at only 697 concurrent players during its opening weekend according to SteamDB.
Positive Aspects: Graphics and Gunplay
Many reviewers are praising Concord for its impressive graphics and enjoyable gunplay. The game, inspired by a Guardians of the Galaxy aesthetic, stands out visually. Its shooting mechanics align more closely with titles like Call of Duty and Destiny’s Crucible, offering less emphasis on abilities than games like Overwatch. PC Gamer’s Morgan Park also highlighted these strengths in his preview of the game.
Challenges: Content and Pricing
While the initial reception focuses on graphical and mechanical strengths, some reviews indicate that Concord feels a bit sparse in its content. However, such a condition is not uncommon for a live service game at launch. The primary critique involves its $40 price tag, which many feel is steep considering the plethora of free or cheaper alternatives in the genre that boast established player bases and more refined competitive scenes.
Market Competition: A Crowded Arena
Concord faces tough competition from free-to-play giants like Destiny, Overwatch, Apex Legends, and emerging contenders like Deadlock. These games not only come with no entry cost but have also built substantial communities and competitive ecosystems. With the live service model demanding significant time commitments, players often remain loyal to their preferred games, making it challenging for Concord to secure a dedicated user base.
The Broader Context: Timing and Strategy
Unfortunately, launching a new competitive multiplayer shooter in 2024’s crowded market is daunting under any circumstance. Despite its developmental journey spanning eight years, Concord’s price point could hinder its growth. In contrast, Helldivers 2, another $40 multiplayer game from Sony, exceeded expectations due to its unique gameplay and strong developer reputation, unlike anything else on the market. Concord, however, faces a different trajectory amidst well-established and free alternatives.
Conclusion
While Concord has notable strengths, including its visuals and gunplay, it nonetheless struggles with market saturation and a steep entry fee. Only time will tell if it can carve out its own space in the crowded genre of hero and arena shooters.