In a surprising turn of events, Dredge, a cosmic horror fishing game developed by Black Salt Games, has exceeded all expectations by selling over 1 million copies since its launch in March 2023. The astonishing achievement was revealed by producer Nadia Thorne during an interview with Game Developer at PAX Aus 2023. Thorne expressed her initial hopes of selling 100,000 copies within the first year, but little did she know that the game would surpass that goal and reach unprecedented heights.
Shortly after its release, Dredge demonstrated its immense popularity by quickly reaching its 100,000 sales target within a mere 24 hours. This overwhelming response showcases the game’s undeniable appeal and the exceptional quality of its gameplay. The GamesHub review even went so far as to describe Dredge as “a masterclass in atmosphere, worldbuilding, tactile mechanics, and game flow,” cementing its reputation as a standout title in the gaming industry.
What makes Dredge’s achievement even more remarkable is the fact that it was created by a team of only four individuals. Led by producer Nadia Thorne, the talented team at Black Salt Games, including programmer Joel Mason and artists Alex Ritchie and Michael Bastiaens, have crafted an extraordinary game that has captivated players worldwide. Their dedication, passion, and creative expertise have undoubtedly contributed to the game’s phenomenal success.
Dredge owes much of its success to its publisher, UK-based company Team17. Known for their ability to recognize and promote promising titles from Australia and New Zealand, Team17 has played a vital role in the game’s triumph. With a track record of supporting blockbuster games like Moving Out 2, Hell Let Loose, and Conscript, among others, Team17 has proven to be a valuable asset for Black Salt Games in reaching a wider audience and achieving global recognition.
Fans of Dredge can look forward to an upcoming paid expansion pack titled The Pale Reach, set to be released in November 2023. This expansion promises to further enhance the game’s already captivating gameplay and introduce new exciting elements for players to explore. Initially, the studio had announced a different expansion called The Iron Rig, but its release has been postponed to 2024 due to strategic marketing reasons. Despite this delay, fans can rest assured that Black Salt Games has their best interests at heart and is committed to delivering an exceptional gaming experience.
The phenomenal sales of Dredge within a short period not only demonstrate the game’s immense popularity but also serve as a testament to the talent and dedication of the Black Salt Games team. Their ability to create a captivating and unique gaming experience has been widely recognized and celebrated by players around the world. As Dredge continues to make waves in the gaming industry, its success story will undoubtedly inspire aspiring game developers and reinforce the notion that even the smallest teams with great vision can achieve remarkable success.
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