Launched in 2020, Rocket Arena entered the gaming scene as a fresh take on the 3vs3 arena shooter genre. Developed by Final Strike Games and published by Electronic Arts (EA), the game initially received a warm reception for its gameplay, which drew comparisons to the likes of Super Smash Bros. It was praised for its focus on controlling space and the dynamic of forcing opponents out of bounds, offering a more strategic and less violent approach compared to traditional shooters.
Post-Launch Support and Decline
Following its release, Rocket Arena was supported with considerable post-launch content for a year, indicating ambitions of evolving into a robust live service game. Despite these efforts, the game struggled to maintain a substantial player base. The updates ceased in 2021, and the game has since been quietly removed from major storefronts, including Steam and the EA store, marking a significant decline from its initial post-launch aspirations.
Store Page Notices
The store pages for Rocket Arena on both Steam and the EA store remain accessible, but they now serve as a digital epitaph for the game. Visitors to these pages are greeted with messages that signify the game’s discontinuation.
| Steam Notice | EA Store Notice |
|---|---|
| “Notice: Rocket Arena is no longer available on the Steam store.” | “We realize the disappointment of this moment.” |
Final Strike Games’ Current Situation
Despite the setback with Rocket Arena, Final Strike Games is actively working on new projects, including an unannounced new IP and contributions to the ever-popular Fortnite. However, the studio has faced challenges, with layoffs and rumors of a project cancellation by Sony leading to a significant reduction in staff.
- Final Strike Games is developing an unannounced new IP.
- The studio has contributed to the Fortnite game, particularly the relaunch of the original map.
- Layoffs occurred in May, affecting the studio’s workforce.
- Unverified reports suggest Sony’s cancellation of a project, resulting in a 40% staff reduction.
The gaming industry presents a formidable challenge for sustaining a multiplayer game like Rocket Arena. In a market saturated with competitive titles, even a well-received game can struggle to maintain an active player base. EA’s decision to delist the game without formal communication underscores the harsh realities of the industry. As of the last report, the game’s player count on Steam has dwindled to a solitary player, highlighting the quiet end to what was once a promising game.
