The CEO of Hexworks, the studio behind Lords of the Fallen, has revealed that despite the game reaching an impressive 5.5 million players, it’s only now approaching the break-even point. This surprising news comes as the game, widely regarded as one of the most successful AA titles in recent years, struggles to deliver profits.

Released in October 2023, Lords of the Fallen was hailed as a spiritual successor to the Souls-like genre and drew comparisons to iconic games like Dark Souls and Elden Ring. The game boasted stunning visuals, challenging gameplay, and a revamped narrative that resonated with fans. However, while the player base grew steadily, the financial side of things didn’t follow the same trajectory.

The CEO’s statement highlights the tough financial realities for AA studios, even when their games achieve critical and commercial success. Developing a game of this scale requires significant investment in technology, marketing, and post-launch support—and these costs seem to have outweighed the initial revenue.

For Moroccan gamers, this story is a reminder of how challenging the gaming industry can be, especially for mid-tier studios. While AAA games like Call of Duty or FIFA dominate the market, AA games often face an uphill battle to compete. This is relevant for young Moroccan developers dreaming of creating their own masterpieces—success isn’t just about crafting a great game; it’s about balancing creativity and business.

Globally, Lords of the Fallen serves as a case study in how even popular games can struggle financially. It raises questions about the sustainability of the AA model and whether smaller studios can survive in an industry dominated by giants like Ubisoft and EA.

Gamers on social media expressed shock at the news, with many praising Hexworks for delivering a high-quality game despite financial hurdles. Some industry analysts pointed out that the Souls-like genre is notoriously niche, appealing to hardcore players but often failing to attract casual audiences.

Others argued that Hexworks’ transparency could inspire more studios to openly discuss the challenges of game development. Moroccan gaming influencers have also chimed in, calling for more support for AA developers and highlighting the importance of community-driven success.

The studio’s CEO remains optimistic, suggesting that the game’s steady player growth could eventually lead to profitability. With ongoing updates and expansions planned, Lords of the Fallen might yet become a financial success. However, the question remains: can AA games continue to thrive in such a competitive industry?

For Moroccan gamers, this story is a call to reflect on how the global gaming landscape impacts local ambitions. Could Morocco become a hub for AA development, or will it face similar challenges?