All Hail Stray, as 'That Cat Game' Goes Big

This analysis examines the performance of PC and console game releases for the week of July 18, 2022, focusing primarily on Steam, while also providing cross-platform insights for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, and Meta Quest. The data is compiled by GameDiscoverCo using proprietary tracking of Steam followers, concurrent users (CCU), review counts, and regional store charts to gauge commercial success and player sentiment.

The primary finding highlights the significant breakout success of Stray, which dominated the July Steam charts with over 26,000 reviews at a 97% positive rating and a peak of 62,000 CCU within its first week. This performance stands in stark contrast to a generally slow month for Western releases. Other notable successes include MultiVersus, which utilized a high-priced "Founder’s Pack" for early access monetization, and the regional success of Nobunaga's Ambition: Shinsei, which achieved over 10,000 CCU despite being restricted to Asian markets. Conversely, several high-budget or highly anticipated titles, such as As Dusk Falls and Endling: Extinction is Forever, underperformed relative to expectations, showing low CCU and limited traction.

The scope of the analysis extends to upcoming releases and the impact of downloadable content (DLC). Data indicates that major DLC launches, such as those for Forza Horizon 5 and Cuphead, significantly boost base game engagement and chart positions. Looking forward, the report identifies Sweet Transit, Sapiens, and Bear & Breakfast as high-interest titles based on Steam follower counts and wishlist rankings. Across consoles, the data confirms that established franchises and subscription-service inclusions, such as Stray on PlayStation Plus, continue to drive the highest volume of downloads and player ratings.