The creators of EverQuest who set up a new indie studio under the name Pixelmage Games has announced ceased of operation today. The company's game which is under Early Access on Steam was also closed and ceased its development. What reason leads Pixelmage to shut down their business?
Pixelmage Games Shuts Down
Pixelmage Games is an indie game studio set up by John Smedly, the former president of Sony Online Entertainment and Daybreak Games known for its game called EverQuest. Pixel Games' debut project, a game entitled Hero's Song was launched on Steam as an Early Access in the first week of November. However, just before the game has officially launched, Pixelmage canceled its development and closed down the studio. In a post on the company's website, the team announced disband and cease in operation.
"For the last year, our team has worked tirelessly to make the game we've dreamed about making, and with your support, and the support of our investors, we were able to get the game into Early Access. Unfortunately, sales fell short of what we needed to continue development," stated in the post.
Refund Offered To 'Hero's Song'
Earlier this year, the team composed of 20 veterans including Smedly himself, hoped to raise $800,000 on Kickstarter to fund further development of the game. Unfortunately, Pixelmage closed a week after the launch on Kickstarter with only $136,800. The indie studio then set out to Indiegogo and raised another $94,200.
An open-world role-playing game, Hero's Song was made available on Steam as an Early Access for $20 on November 7. It has seen a lot of potential by the players. However, it fell short of sales and as what the company says, an indie game studio needs sales to continue further development.
Players who purchased the game were offered refund by Pixelmage. For Indiegogo customers, you can email your information to refunds@pixelmagegames.com. For players who purchased the game thru Steam, you can claim a refund via the normal refunding system.
