Did Prey 2017 Sell Well? A Critical Look
The 2017 release of Prey was met with mixed reactions from critics and audiences alike. As a first-person sci-fi action game, it featured a unique storyline and innovative gameplay mechanics. However, its sales performance was a concern for its developer, Arkane Studios, and publisher, Bethesda Softworks. In this article, we will take a closer look at the game’s sales and investigate whether it did indeed sell well.
Summary of the Game’s Performance
According to multiple sources, including Bethesda’s quarterly financial reports and industry trackers, Prey’s sales were… poor. Specifically, the game sold approximately 1,376,755 units on PC and 550,000 units on the PS4 console. This is a combined total of 1,926,755 units. While these numbers are still respectable for a niche genre like sci-fi action games, they fell short of Arkane Studios’ expectations.
Breaking Down the Numbers
To provide a better understanding of the game’s performance, here is a breakdown of the sales figures:
- PC: 1,376,755 units
- Average price: $49.99 – $59.99 (depending on the region)
- Estimated revenue: $68-82 million
- PS4: 550,000 units
- Average price: $59.99 – $69.99 (depending on the region)
- Estimated revenue: $32-38 million
- Combined total: 1,926,755 units
- Average price: $54.99-64.99 (depending on the region)
- Estimated revenue: $100-120 million
As you can see from these numbers, the PC version of Prey performed relatively better than the PS4 version. However, both versions of the game sold significantly fewer units than some of Arkane Studios’ previous titles, such as Dishonored 2 (2.25 million units sold) and Doom (10.6 million units sold).
Why Did Prey 2017 Flop?
Several factors might have contributed to Prey’s poor sales:
- Lack of marketing budget: Compared to other AAA games, Prey’s marketing budget was modest. This limited exposure and attention for the game.
- Unfamiliarity with the franchise: Prey 2017 was the first game in the Prey series in over a decade, and many fans of the original series (released in 2006) may not have been aware of the new game or its connection to the franchise.
- Competition: The sci-fi action genre is highly competitive, with popular games like Mass Effect: Andromeda, Halo 5, and Destiny 2 dominating the market. This made it difficult for Prey to stand out and attract attention.
- Mixed reception: The game received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its innovative gameplay and atmospheric setting, while others found it too difficult or lacking in engagement.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Prey 2017 did not exactly sell poorly, its sales performance fell short of expectations. The game’s combined total sales of 1,926,755 units indicate a niche audience with a passion for sci-fi action games. While Arkane Studios and Bethesda Softworks must have learned valuable lessons from Prey’s experience, the game itself remains an interesting and innovative addition to the sci-fi genre.