Counterplay Games Closes Alongside Toadman Interactive and Freejam

Counterplay Games, the studio behind the PS5 launch title Godfall, has reportedly closed its doors. According to fresh LinkedIn posts detailing layoffs and closures in the gaming industry, Counterplay Games has shut down alongside two other developers: Toadman Interactive and Freejam. Toadman Interactive is best known for Immortal: Unchained, while Freejam created the free-to-play PC title Robocraft.

Additional details uncovered by PlayStation Lifestyle reveal that Counterplay Games was “disbanded” last month. The studio had been working with Jackalyptic Games on a project, but the partnership ended as the year came to a close. An employee commented, “Unfortunately, we were unable to continue our partnership into the new year, and CPG was disbanded.”


The Rise and Fall of Godfall

Counterplay Games gained significant attention when Godfall was unveiled at The Game Awards in 2019 as the first confirmed title for the PS5. While the announcement generated considerable excitement, the final product struggled to meet expectations. With a Metacritic rating of 61, Godfall received mixed reviews. In PlayStation Lifestyle’s own assessment, the game earned a 5/10.

“If everything Godfall had to offer was as good as its satisfying combat system, we would be looking at a darn good PS5 launch game,” the review stated. “However, in reality, that’s the only thing it has to boast about. An inconsequential loot system, recycled environments, and a frustrating mission structure thwart any sort of enjoyment the game might offer.”

The title later received a PS4 version, which somewhat diluted its status as a marquee PS5 launch game. Despite these setbacks, Godfall remains a part of the PS5’s early history, showcasing the potential of the console’s hardware, even if the execution left something to be desired.


Industry Impact

The closure of Counterplay Games adds to the growing list of challenges facing smaller studios in the gaming industry. Toadman Interactive and Freejam’s shutdowns further highlight the volatile nature of game development, particularly for teams working on niche or experimental titles.


Key Points

  • Counterplay Games, known for Godfall, has officially closed.
  • Toadman Interactive (Immortal: Unchained) and Freejam (Robocraft) have also shut down.
  • Godfall was the first confirmed PS5 game but received mixed reviews (Metacritic score: 61).
  • Studio closure highlights ongoing challenges for smaller game developers.
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