Capcom Connects Monster Hunter Wilds Sales Dip to PS5 Console Cost
Monster Hunter Wilds launched to phenomenal success, quickly becoming Capcom's fastest-selling title. It moved over 8 million units within its first three days and surpassed 10 million copies sold within a month. However, recent financial reports indicate a significant slowdown in sales, prompting Capcom's President, Haruhiro Tsujimoto, to offer an explanation.
According to the latest quarterly financial update, Monster Hunter Wilds sold only 477,000 units, bringing its total to 10.5 million copies. This figure fell short of Capcom's expectations. In an interview with Japanese publication Nikkei, Tsujimoto suggested that the high cost associated with the PlayStation 5 ecosystem is a major contributing factor to this sales slump.
"We've found that the barriers to buying a PS5 are very serious," Tsujimoto stated. "The console itself costs around 80,000 yen. If you add games and subscriptions to that, it totals around 100,000 yen. For many, especially young people, this is not money that can be easily spent. This situation isn't just in Japan; it's the same overseas."
Tsujimoto emphasized that Capcom's immediate goal is to "break this barrier" and ensure Monster Hunter Wilds reaches as many players as possible. The company plans to leverage upcoming sales and promotions, strategizing how to maintain consistent sales throughout the year.
Further supporting his point, Tsujimoto highlighted the successful launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 in Japan, which boasts a more accessible price point compared to the PS5. He believes this demonstrates that affordability remains a crucial factor for consumers. However, he offered no hints regarding a potential Monster Hunter Wilds port for the Switch 2.
It's important to note that external factors like console pricing aren't the only challenge Monster Hunter Wilds faces. The game has received a 'Mixed' rating on Steam, with only 50% of reviews being positive, and a user score of 7.1 out of 10 on Metacritic. Much of this lower reception is attributed to the game's "depressing technical state" and optimization issues at launch. While Capcom is committed to addressing these problems, a significant fourth major patch with "corresponding measures" is not scheduled until winter.
For players, this news means a multi-faceted approach from Capcom. While the company intends to make the game more accessible through future sales, those hoping for a polished, technically sound experience might need to wait until the promised winter patch. Capcom's focus on long-term sales indicates they are prepared to invest time and resources to ensure Monster Hunter Wilds eventually reaches its full potential and wider audience.
Post a Comment