Fans of Moon Studios’ stunning action RPG, No Rest for the Wicked, recently received an important update regarding its highly anticipated console release. While the game is confirmed to eventually arrive on all major platforms, Xbox players might need a little more patience, as PlayStation 5 and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 are currently taking precedence.
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What is No Rest for the Wicked?
Developed by Moon Studios, the acclaimed creators behind the beloved Ori and the Blind Forest and Will of the Wisps, No Rest for the Wicked is a top-down action RPG that blends the intense combat of games like Diablo with a high skill ceiling, demanding precision and strategic play. Its beautiful, hand-crafted dark fantasy world and deep gameplay systems have already captured attention, especially since its debut in Steam’s Early Access program for PC, where it’s currently available for $39.99.
The Console Release Road Map: Xbox’s Place
For Xbox players who adored Moon Studios’ Ori series and are eager to dive into their latest creation, news about the console versions has been a key concern. Moon Studios CEO Thomas Mahler recently offered some insights on the game’s Discord channel, indicating that the Xbox version of No Rest for the Wicked is currently the lowest priority among consoles.
Thomas Mahler, CEO of Moon Studios, clarifies console release plans for No Rest for the Wicked on X, addressing Xbox prioritization.
Mahler’s initial comments sparked discussions about Xbox’s future as a platform. However, he quickly clarified his stance in a follow-up post on X (formerly Twitter), reassuring fans that No Rest for the Wicked will “ultimately” ship on all platforms, including Xbox, but likely “not at the same time.” He explained that releasing on PlayStation 5 first “makes the most sense” based on current market data and player numbers.
Why PS5 First? Understanding the Strategy
The decision to prioritize the PlayStation 5 version of No Rest for the Wicked largely comes down to the console’s vast audience. With PS5 currently boasting the largest installed base among current-gen consoles, it presents the most significant immediate opportunity for an independent studio like Moon Studios to reach a broad player base and maximize sales.
Official trailer thumbnail for No Rest for the Wicked, showcasing its dark fantasy world and intense action RPG combat.
While Xbox has a dedicated fanbase, particularly one that might gravitate towards Moon Studios’ titles due to the Ori legacy, the sheer scale of the PlayStation market makes it an undeniable first choice for many developers looking to make a splash. Independent studios often need to weigh development costs against potential revenue for each platform, making strategic release timing crucial. The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 also presents a massive opportunity, as new console launches often see a rush for early titles.
Xbox’s Unique Appeal and Future Potential
Despite not being the top priority for No Rest for the Wicked‘s initial console launch, Xbox still offers a compelling ecosystem. The platform has seen growth through PC integration, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and initiatives like Xbox Play Anywhere and Xbox Game Pass. While No Rest for the Wicked might not launch directly into Game Pass, similar action RPGs like Diablo 3 and 4 have enjoyed considerable success on Xbox.
Furthermore, for a game with a fixed camera perspective like No Rest for the Wicked, Xbox Cloud Gaming could offer a surprisingly native-feeling experience, as its image update algorithms handle such titles well. As Xbox Cloud Gaming aims to move beyond its beta phase, it could potentially offer new avenues for game distribution and player engagement.
What This Means for Players
For now, PC players can dive into No Rest for the Wicked via Steam Early Access and get a head start on exploring its challenging world. Xbox fans will need to keep an eye out for future announcements, but rest assured, the game is coming. It just might be a matter of patience while Moon Studios strategically rolls out its masterpiece across platforms.
If you’re eager to experience Moon Studios’ latest adventure, be sure to check out No Rest for the Wicked on Steam.
