- 12-06-2023
The Slow Death of Friday the 13th: The Game
In a recent announcement reminiscent of a classic horror film, publisher Gun Media revealed that Friday the 13th: The Game will meet its ultimate demise, but not without a prolonged and agonizing struggle for survival. With the company's license set to expire on December 31, 2023, the game will no longer be available for purchase, and eventually, it will cease to function altogether. However, in a surprising last-ditch effort, the publisher has slashed prices and extended the game's life until at least December 31, 2024, for current owners.
Since its debut in 2017, Friday the 13th: The Game has experienced a harrowing journey akin to the horror movie monsters it emulates. Plagued by persistent server issues and concerns that developer Illfonic had abandoned the project, the game struggled to overcome numerous obstacles. Matters worsened in 2018 when content development halted due to a legal dispute over the Friday the 13th property, eventually leading to the cancellation of further development. Despite these setbacks, dedicated fans have continued to play, keeping the game alive well past its expected expiration date.
In an effort to make the most of its remaining time, Gun Media has reduced the base game's price to $4.00 and each piece of DLC content to $0.99. The significant reduction in price will continue until the game is no longer available on digital platforms and in physical stores, which will occur at the conclusion of 2023. With over a year and a half left before the end, there is hope that modders may be able to devise a way to extend the game's life even further.
While the upcoming demise of Friday the 13th: The Game marks an unfortunate end for fans, it does not signal the complete cessation of licensed multiplayer survival horror games. Indeed, Gun Media is in the process of creating a new video game inspired by the Texas Chainsaw Massacre series, expected to launch sometime this year. This new project offers a glimmer of hope for fans of the genre, as it carries the same core essence of Friday the 13th: The Game while introducing a fresh and exciting environment.
In summary, while the inevitable end of Friday the 13th: The Game may be hard to accept, its remarkable endurance and resilience, much like the monstrous beings it portrays, are truly commendable. As we bid farewell to this horror-inspired game, we eagerly anticipate the release of Gun Media's upcoming spine-chilling creation, the Texas Chainsaw Massacre game. Meanwhile, fans can savor every last drop of terror as they enjoy the final moments of Friday the 13th: The Game.