‘Commercially, we were unsatisfied’: Remedy says FBC: Firebreak underperformed on Steam

Remedy’s first ever self-published title, FBC: Firebreak, underperformed on PC following its launch on June 17. 

In its latest fiscal report, the Finnish company explained the launch “succeeded technically” after reaching over 1 million players within 10 days, but noted the majority of those players were on Xbox Series X | S and PlayStation 5. 

Over on Steam, which Remedy noted was “planned as the primary consumer sales channel on PC,” the co-operative shooter struggled due to some early teething pains. 

“The game’s initial onboarding experience and mission structure resulted in high early player drop-offs and an influx of negative reviews. As players spent more time in the game and we released updates improving the game, sentiment in reviews turned more positive,” said Remedy CEO, Tero Virtala. 

“Commercially, we were unsatisfied with the launch-phase consumer sales of FBC: Firebreak. Thus far, FBC: Firebreak’s commercial performance has largely been driven by the Xbox and PlayStation subscription service agreements. A considerable portion of the revenues from these agreements will still be recognized throughout the contract period.” 

Virtala said FBC: Firebreak was designed to evolve over time and believes the Control spin-off can become successful despite a “rocky launch.” 

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“We believe we have a solid game to build on. Players who spent over an hour with the game reviewed the game mostly positive—showing us that the core experience of the game is entertaining,” he added. “We have already rolled out patches and communicated on how the game will continue to develop.” 

FBC: Firebreak will receive a large major update in late September that Remedy feels will be the “next key step” in evolving the title and engaging players. Virtala said the company remains committed to engaging with the FBC: Firebreak community and expanding the game. 

Control exceeds 5 million lifetime sales during Q2

During the second quarter of the fiscal year, Remedy saw revenue increase by 63.5 percent year-on-year to €16.9 million ($19.6 million). 

Game sales and royalties both increased, while development costs also rose. The company posted a quarterly operating loss of €500,000 ($581,000), which was an improvement on the €2.7 million ($3.1 million) operating loss posted this time last year. 

“Game sales increase was driven by the sales of FBC: Firebreak, including an initial accrual from subscription service agreements with Sony and Microsoft. Alan Wake 2 and Control continued to sell steadily and accrue royalties. Development fees were from Control 2 and Max Payne 1 & 2 remake,” said Virtala. 

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Control 2 remains on track to successfully hit its next production milestones. The development team is currently focused on building out gameplay, environments, and missions.  

The Max Payne 1 & 2 remakes also remain in full production and according to Virtala are building “steady momentum.” 

“Collaboration with Rockstar Games remains close and productive, ensuring alignment as the project advances toward its next major phase,” he added. 

Control exceeded 5 million lifetime sales during the second quarter. The title’s publish