Evil Dead: The Game Mysteriously Delisted – What’s Happening?
Evil Dead: The Game, the asymmetrical multiplayer horror title based on the iconic film franchise, has been suddenly removed from several digital storefronts, leaving fans wondering about its future. Launched in 2022, the game garnered attention for its unique blend of survival horror and action, but recent developments suggest a shift in its availability.
Reports indicate that the game is no longer available for purchase on the Epic Games Store and the PlayStation Store. According to Polygon, Saber Interactive has confirmed the delisting on Steam as well. While it remains available on Xbox for now, it's expected to be removed soon. This move comes as a surprise to many, especially since Saber Interactive pledged to maintain server support for the game even after ceasing regular content updates in late 2023.
"We can confirm we’ve begun the process of removing the game from digital storefronts," Saber Interactive stated on the Evil Dead Steam page. The company assures players that "Anyone who has purchased the game will still be able to play it as we plan to keep our servers online for everyone." A sincere thank you was extended to the community for their support.
Despite initial positive reception, including praise for its faithfulness to the Evil Dead universe, Evil Dead: The Game faced mixed reviews regarding its balance and gameplay. GameSpot's review noted its faithfulness but also pointed out the need for more varied objectives. Post-launch support included updates like Splatter Royale and Army of Darkness content, and a Game of the Year Edition was released for consoles.
The reason behind the delisting remains unclear. Similar situations have occurred with other games, such as Spec Ops: The Line (licensing issues) and several Adult Swim titles (logistical and resource constraints). The cancellation of the Nintendo Switch version in September 2023 further fueled speculation about the game's future.
Saber Interactive CEO Matthew Karch previously downplayed the significance of mixed review scores, emphasizing the importance of sales and player engagement. While the servers remain active, enabling online matches and single-player missions, the game's long-term availability hinges on Saber's continued server support. The fate of Evil Dead: The Game serves as a reminder of the often-transient nature of digital games, particularly those relying on licenses and online infrastructure.
What do you think about the delisting of Evil Dead: The Game? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!