What's Happening?
58BLADES, the developer of the upcoming game Handmancers, has decided to delay its release to avoid launching in the same week as the highly anticipated Slay the Spire 2. Originally set to release on March 9, Handmancers' launch has been postponed following
the announcement of Slay the Spire 2's early access release on March 6. The decision was made to prevent the game from being overshadowed by the sequel to the popular deckbuilding roguelike, which has a significant following. The developers expressed their excitement for Slay the Spire 2 and acknowledged that launching alongside it would be detrimental to Handmancers' visibility and success. The delay will also allow 58BLADES to add more content and polish to their game.
Why It's Important?
The decision by 58BLADES highlights a common strategy in the gaming industry where smaller developers avoid releasing their games alongside major titles to ensure better visibility and sales. This move underscores the competitive nature of the gaming market, where timing can significantly impact a game's success. By delaying the release, 58BLADES aims to maximize Handmancers' potential audience and reception. This strategy is particularly relevant given the high volume of games released on platforms like Steam, where many titles struggle to gain traction. The delay also benefits players, as it allows developers to enhance the game's quality, potentially leading to a more polished and enjoyable experience.
What's Next?
58BLADES plans to use the additional time to improve Handmancers by adding an extra boss and refining the game's balance and polish. The developers have not announced a new release date, but they are committed to ensuring the game launches in its best possible state. As the release of Slay the Spire 2 approaches, it will be interesting to see how other developers respond and whether similar delays occur. The gaming community will likely keep an eye on Handmancers' development, anticipating its eventual release and the enhancements made during the delay.
