The failure of live service games still seems to be a common occurrence these days. With so many similar games already out there, it's not surprising that various titles fail to make a significant impact in the market.
On a different spectrum, single-player games seem to be less favored by major developers.
Publishers increasingly lean towards games as a service but might face a harsh reality as many true gamers still prefer single-player experiences.
More than 50% of Gamers Prefer Single-Player Games Over Online or Co-op. According to a report from Midia Research, it is proven that more gamers prefer single-player games over games as a service. About 53% of 9000 respondents of different ages and countries chose the single-player type.
Considering the recent success of games like Black Myth Wukong, Elden Ring, and the latest Zelda game, it makes sense that gamers still prefer single-player games.
One major reason why single-player games are more favored is the immersive storytelling. Single-player games often offer rich, narrative-driven experiences that allow players to become deeply invested in the game world and its characters.
This emotional connection and engagement are difficult to replicate in live service games, which tend to focus more on gameplay mechanics and less on story development.
Moreover, single-player games provide the freedom to play at one's own pace. Players can explore game worlds thoroughly, complete side quests, and enjoy the journey without the pressure of keeping up with other players or timed events. This flexibility is particularly appealing for those who enjoy taking their time to savor every aspect of a game.
Interestingly, as the age of gamers gets younger, they tend to prefer Online PVP and Co-op games more, as seen in the 16-19 and 20-24 age groups.
It is Difficult for Live Service Games to Succeed. With the proliferation of live service games, it seems increasingly challenging for such games to grow into big names. A title must be unique from what already exists. If not, such a game may gradually or even suddenly fade away