Supercell's Squad Busters: A Solid Start, But Falling Short of Expectations
Supercell's latest mobile game, Squad Busters, a MOBA/RTS hybrid, has achieved a respectable 40 million installs and $24 million in net revenue within its first month. The game's popularity is particularly strong in the US, 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 (2018), while Clash Royale amassed over $115 million (2016). Furthermore, Squad Busters' install rate shows a concerning downward trend, peaking at 30 million in its first week and dropping significantly thereafter. Spending per player has also declined since launch.
Supercell Fatigue?
The underwhelming performance of Squad Busters, despite Supercell's apparent high investment, raises questions about potential market saturation. Competitors like Honkai Star Rail, which achieved $190 million in its first month, highlight the considerable gap. While Squad Busters is a well-made game, its similarity to Supercell's existing titles might indicate player fatigue with the company's established formula. Only time will tell if Squad Busters can overcome this initial hurdle and achieve long-term success.
For a look at other top-performing mobile games of 2024, and a glimpse into the future with our list of anticipated releases, check out our dedicated articles.
