Spectre Divide FPS Server Shuts Down After Six Months

Mountaintop Studios has announced the closure of its tactical FPS title, Spectre Divide, just six months after launch. The decision follows disappointing performance from Season 1 and the console launch, failing to meet the company's financial expectations. This article details the CEO's statement and the reasons behind the shutdown.

Spectre Divide to Go Offline in 30 Days

Underperforming Season 1 and Console Launch

In a message to fans on March 13th, Mountaintop Studios CEO Nate Mitchell explained that the Season 1: Flashpoint launch fell short of the success needed to sustain the game and the studio. While the initial week saw over 400,000 players and a peak concurrent player count of 10,000 across all platforms, sustained player engagement and revenue proved insufficient for long-term operation.

Earlier reports from The Verge (December 2024) highlighted Mountaintop Studios' precarious financial situation, suggesting that the Season 1 launch and console rollout were crucial for the game's survival. Game Director Lee Horn attributed some of the underperformance to launch server issues, which hampered initial momentum despite marketing efforts. Mitchell stated that the lack of engagement with Season 1 forced a difficult decision regarding the game's future.

The game is expected to go offline within 30 days, with plans to disable new purchases and issue refunds for all spending since the Season 1 relaunch. Further details on the refund process are forthcoming.

$30 Million in Funding Proves Insufficient

The closure comes as a surprise given that Mountaintop Studios secured $30 million in funding last year from prominent investors, including Anthos Capital, RX3 Growth Partners, A16Z GAMES, and other angel investors. Despite this significant investment, the company was unable to achieve profitability.

Mitchell explained that all options were explored, including seeking a publisher, additional investment, or acquisition, but none proved successful. He acknowledged the challenging current climate within the gaming industry, stating, "The industry is in a tough spot right now." He also reflected on the team's ambition to create a unique and innovative experience in a competitive market, acknowledging the inherent risks involved in such an endeavor.

Spectre Divide joins a growing list of live-service games that have struggled to find success, including titles like Multiversus, Babylon’s Fall, and Concord, as well as cancelled projects such as The Last of Us Online and a reported God of War live-service game.

Mountaintop Studios to Close This Week

Following the exhaustion of its remaining capital, Mountaintop Studios will cease operations by the end of the week. Mitchell confirmed that the lack of funding to support Spectre Divide necessitates the studio's closure.