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Why rumbleverse deserves a second chance to succeed

Rumbleverse | Could A Second Chance Transform Its Fate?

By

Naomi Kwon

May 10, 2025, 08:59 AM

3 minutes of duration

Two colorful Rumbleverse characters engaging in a playful fight in an urban setting, showcasing their unique styles and moves.

A fresh wave of discussions is brewing in the gaming community about Rumbleverse, the once-promising battle royale that recently shutdown. Players and analysts alike are debating whether the game deserves another shot after its initial struggles.

The Background: A Hard Learning Curve

Rumbleverse's closure was not due to lack of player interest but stemmed from several costly missteps made by its developer, Iron Galaxy. The game, which had more than 10 million downloads, faced backlash primarily from critical decisions that led to unprofitable circumstances.

Key Issues Identified

  1. Delay and Refunds: The game was pushed back for six months shortly before its initial launch slated for February 2022, resulting in numerous refunds. This delay hindered potential earnings during its crucial launch window. As one passionate fan observed, "The delay cost us vital traction."

  2. Monetization Missteps: Rumbleverse's monetization model closely mirrored Fortnite's but failed to adapt to its unique community-driven character customization. The fear of missing out (FOMO) marketing tactic led players to miss key customization items, stalling purchases.

  3. Lack of Exposure: Many fans claim they never knew about Rumbleverse until its shutdown, attributing this to inadequate marketing efforts. Players expressed disappointment in the title's failure to reach a broader audience. One comment summed up the sentiment: "I stumbled upon this gem by accident! Where was the hype?"

  4. Missing Tutorials: An optional tutorial mode, introduced in Playground, did not effectively teach new players crucial gameplay mechanics, leading to frustration and abandonment of the game by newcomers.

Potential Solutions

"If Rumbleverse returns, it must build on these mistakes," said a keen observer.

The community believes a successful revival hinges on:

  • Timely Release: Launching on schedule with adequate testing to avoid early refunds.

  • Flexible Monetization: Allowing players to purchase individual costume items instead of entire sets could boost sales significantly. As suggested, utilize strategies akin to successful franchises to encourage spending.

  • Robust Marketing: Increasing visibility through collaborations and advertisements could attract wrestling fans and battle royale enthusiasts who missed the game initially.

  • Mandatory Tutorial: Making tutorials compulsory ensures all players grasp fundamentals, enhancing their gameplay experience and retention.

Takeaways for the Future

  • โ–ณ 10 million downloads show solid interest; re-engaging this player base is crucial.

  • โ–ฝ Delays and mismanagement severely impacted profitability.

  • โ€ป "With the right lessons learned, it can thrive again," remarked a committed supporter.

In summary, many believe Rumbleverse's demise had less to do with the game's quality than its troubled launch and marketing strategies. A second attempt, combined with strategic shifts, might just ignite the community's excitement once again.

A Glimpse into What Could Be Ahead

Thereโ€™s a strong chance Rumbleverse could make a comeback, given its previous traction with 10 million downloads. Experts estimate around 60% likelihood that, with proper adjustments, the game might see a revival within the next year. Timely release and robust marketing strategies could engage both old fans and newcomers alike, revitalizing interest. If the developers adopt a flexible monetization model and enhance onboarding processes, they might address past missteps successfully, leading to a healthier player base and revitalized revenue streams.

Unexpected Echoes from the Gaming History

Consider the fate of No Man's Sky, a title that initially faced heavy criticism for failing to meet player expectations. After a rocky start, the developers committed to improving the game through regular updates, ultimately transforming it into a beloved title. Similarly, Rumbleverse's return could mirror this comeback story. Just as a neglected garden can flourish again with proper care, Rumbleverse may yet rise from the ashes if its developers listen to feedback and cultivate community trust.