The MMORPG Crowfall is late. Now the responsible studio ArtCraft has received an additional 6 million dollars at the beginning of December. Are they picking up the pace now?
Actually, Crowfall was supposed to go into soft launch in the summer of 2017. But this date has recently been officially postponed to “as early as possible in 2018”.
Despite all the doomsayers, the team is now toasting to a “great year 2017” in a public statement. After all, a lot has been revised and improved, the developers have certainly not been idle and are looking forward to 2018. Then, finally, Alpha, Beta, and the soft launch are supposed to start, and ultimately, as soon as the game has been polished enough, the worldwide release as well.
These were the main advances in 2017
In 2017, the following was achieved:
- The discipline system was introduced with over 100 specializations.
- The skill training system was completely overhauled.
- Buildings can now be constructed in real-time without needing to restart the game.
- The graphics engine has been polished.
- The website was completely redesigned.
- New classes were introduced: One can now choose between 12 races and 11 classes.
- Introduction of a functioning system for building and customizing fortresses according to personal needs.
- A stable server has been established.
6 million dollars extra!
Over the summer, there was internal discussion about where things stand and what is needed. It was concluded that more funds would be needed to allow the game to continue growing and to cover launch costs.
On December 1, Crowfall secured a new funding round of 6 million dollars from investors. Additionally, they are pleased with the pledges totaling about 4 million dollars that have been raised so far by the 35,000 backers! Moreover, the number of registered crows is encouragingly high at about 232,000. The full statement can be read here.
This funding covers ongoing costs and marketing materials for the launch, primarily for new positions. These are intended not only to relieve existing staff but also to hopefully bring more speed to game production without sacrificing quality.
The developers are very aware that without crowdfunding, much of this would not have been possible and are grateful for the support from backers and fans.
Nevertheless, skepticism among the crows
The fans are still divided. Up to this point, Crowfall has been granted considerable financial support, and the game looks anything but finished. Some fear, as seen in the comments, that if the game launches in 2018, it will likely be hopelessly outdated.
The others are simply looking forward to further progress and that backers are kept informed. Which side are you on?
