The Steam FPS title, Fortune's Run, faces an indefinite delay due to its sole developer, Dizzie, receiving a three-year prison sentence. This unexpected setback puts the game's early access release in limbo.
While delays in Steam game development are common, stemming from financial constraints or technical challenges, Fortune's Run's predicament is unique. Dizzie's incarceration halts all development until their release.
Prior to this news, Fortune's Run enjoyed considerable success on Steam, boasting a "Very Positive" rating and praise for its nostalgic art style and gameplay. However, future updates are now significantly delayed. While lengthy development periods are not unprecedented in the gaming industry (Half-Life 2 being a prime example), the game's future remains uncertain.
Dizzie revealed the prison sentence in a January 14th Steam update, stating that the crime predated the game's development and occurred during a period of their life characterized by violent behavior. Although the specific crime remains undisclosed, this situation is unusual within the gaming industry, contrasting with recent legal issues faced by other figures like streamer Johnny Somali.
The game initially had a second team member, but their departure following a surgery and disinterest in further game development leaves Dizzie as the sole developer. Development will cease entirely starting February 2025, pushing back the projected 2026 early access completion date. While a three-year delay would not be unheard of for indie games (as evidenced by Satisfactory's development), the target date is now highly improbable.
Dizzie assures fans that the game's completion is their intention upon release from prison. The game remains playable in its current state, and numerous other early access shooters on Steam offer alternatives until development resumes.
