Frontier is facing financial failure following Planet Coaster 2’s rough launch

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In May 2024, Frontier Developments unveiled Jurassic World Evolution 3, slated for release in 2026. Given the less-than-satisfactory financial performance of Planet Coaster 2, there’s significant anticipation surrounding its success. Now, let’s explore what we might see from the creators of one of my cherished classics (that I still own in a collector’s edition – a bit of a quirky boast, I admit), RollerCoaster Tycoon, this year. Let’s delve deeper into it.

Frontier’s survival depends on Jurassic World 3 and their legacy titles

On November 6th, 2024, Planet Coaster 2 hit the shelves and managed a strong debut, with sales surpassing 400,000 units and generating over $12 million in revenue within its initial two months. Despite this success, it didn’t quite outshine Warhammer Age of Sigmar Realms of Ruin, but according to Carl Smith’s report for Zeus Capital on January 16, 2025, the game is yet to turn a profit.

Currently, Frontier is focused on enhancing the game with updates and bug fixes to boost player interaction. Consequently, the release of new DLC has been postponed temporarily. The delay in releasing new content may lead to a quicker than normal decline in sales for Frontier’s games, primarily because of the mixed reviews, early price reductions, and simultaneous launch on PC and consoles. This situation puts significant strain on their upcoming major game, Jurassic World Evolution 3, as it may not generate as much profit as Frontier’s original titles due to its licensed IP.

To compensate for this, Frontier has decided to reduce their projected income from PC2, while aiming to increase sales of their established titles such as Planet Coaster and Elite Dangerous. Additionally, they plan to launch more downloadable content (DLCs). In an effort to save expenses, they’ve reduced marketing budgets, but research and development costs have risen due to the team’s focus on improving PC2 rather than creating new games.

What does the future hold?

Planet Coaster, developed by Frontier, was a major success as it filled a niche in modern roller coaster simulation games. However, some fans have been underwhelmed by the release of Planet Coaster 2. Although it introduced new elements, many players felt that it didn’t significantly surpass the original version; instead, they perceived it as an improved update rather than a full-fledged sequel. Additionally, the game’s high system requirements have disappointed those with less powerful computers. Critics pointed out problems with pacing, economic management, and mechanics that seemed less fluid compared to the first game.

For the future of Frontier, it’s uncertain at this point. However, we can only cross our fingers that they avoid any further rounds of layoffs, such as those that occurred in October 2023, following the lackluster performances of F1 Manager 2022 and F1 Manager 2023.

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2025-01-21 17:01