The multiplayer servers for Disintegration are going offline less than six months after the game’s release. The publisher, Private Division, and developer, V1 Interactive, cited a lack of interest for the reasoning behind closing the online portion of the game. The removal of the multiplayer will take place over the next two months, concluding in a full server shutdown on November 17.
Disintegration is the first game from V1 Interactive, a studio formed by Halo co-creator Marcus Lehto and Socom alumni Mike Gutmann. Initially, the game received comprehensive coverage due to Lehto and Gutmann’s credentials. After it was released on June 16, 2020, interest waned. Upon launch, the game received middling scores, averaging a 63 Metascore across all platforms (PS4, Xbox One, and PC) on Metacritic.
Why is Disintegration‘s multiplayer shutting down?
In a press release announcing the decision to close down Disintegration‘s multiplayer, the studio stated:
“We have made the difficult decision to remove Disintegration’s multiplayer modes from the game across all platforms. While our player base showed interest in the single-player campaign, the game, unfortunately, struggled to build a significant audience necessary for a compelling multiplayer experience. After weighing options, we have collectively made the decision to sunset the multiplayer support. We believe the video game industry needs constant innovation, and we will continue to take risks, follow creative visions, and support new ideas. To everyone who has played Disintegration: we thank you.”
Our two previews (here and here) stated that the game had promise but lacked a hook to keep the player motivated. It features an interesting blend of first-person and strategic combat but fails to capitalize on the premise. The console numbers for Disintegration aren’t available. However, according to Steam Charts, the only time the game broke a double-digit player count was during a free play weekend at the end of July, where it hit a peak of 539 before plummeting back down.
After the Disintegration multiplayer servers go down on November 17, the single-player campaign will continue to be available to those who own the game. It’s not clear as to whether the game will remain available for sale after the multiplayer is removed or if it’ll be delisted.
H/T: VGC
