Santa Ragione, an Italian game developer, has encountered significant challenges with its latest horror title, Horses. Despite being removed from major digital storefronts, the game has managed to sell over 18,000 copies, raising important questions about platform power and the future of independent studios.
Horses Deplatformed by Major Stores
Earlier this month, Santa Ragione revealed that Valve, the company behind Steam, would not host Horses. This decision severely limited the game’s reach, as Steam is the leading platform for PC game distribution. Shortly after, Epic Games Store also withdrew support for the title, further restricting access for potential players.
Sales Performance and Financial Impact
Despite these setbacks, Horses has generated approximately $65,000 in net revenue. This figure was achieved thanks to extensive media coverage of the bans, public support from GOG, and a strong player response. However, the studio notes that these earnings primarily cover existing obligations, such as royalties and loans, rather than providing a secure future for the company.
Team Fragmentation and Future Prospects
The prolonged development process and sudden platform removals forced Santa Ragione’s team to seek employment elsewhere. While steady sales may allow for the development of a new prototype, reuniting the original team remains a significant challenge. The studio emphasizes that the impact of the bans extends beyond immediate financial concerns, leading to lasting fragmentation and uncertainty.
Calls for Greater Accountability in Distribution
Santa Ragione has called for clearer rules, transparent processes, and meaningful accountability from major digital distribution platforms. The studio points out that for every visible case like Horses, there are many more games that are quietly banned, delisted, or stalled in indefinite review. Developers often hesitate to speak out due to concerns about future approvals and potential retaliation.
- Steam and Epic Games Store removed Horses, limiting its market reach.
- Sales reached over 18,000 copies, generating $65,000 in net revenue.
- Financial gains have not secured the studio’s future, with the team taking on other projects.
- Santa Ragione urges more transparent and fair platform policies for all developers.
This situation highlights the influence of distribution platforms on independent studios and the broader implications for creative freedom and business sustainability in the gaming industry.
