Supercell's Squad Busters: A Solid Start, But Falling Short of Expectations
Supercell's latest mobile game, Squad Busters, a MOBA RTS hybrid, achieved impressive initial results, boasting over 40 million installs and $24 million in net revenue within its first month. The US led the charge in player numbers, followed by Indonesia, Brazil, Turkey, and South Korea.
However, these figures pale in comparison to Supercell's previous successes. Brawl Stars generated $43 million in its first month in 2018, while Clash Royale amassed over $115 million during its initial launch period in 2016. Furthermore, Squad Busters' install rate showed a concerning downward trend, peaking at 30 million in the first week and dropping significantly to under five million by the end of the month. Spending also declined post-launch.
Supercell Fatigue?
The diminishing returns for Squad Busters, despite Supercell's apparent high hopes for the title, raise questions. Competitor Honkai Star Rail, for instance, achieved a staggering $190 million in its first month, highlighting the significant gap.
While Squad Busters is a well-made game, its similarity to Supercell's existing portfolio might be contributing to player fatigue. The long-term performance of Squad Busters will be crucial in determining whether this is a temporary setback or a more significant trend.
For a look at other top-performing mobile games of 2024, check out our list of the best mobile games and our list of the most anticipated mobile games of the year.