Splitgate Developers Push Back On Steam Metrics After Arena Reloaded Relaunch

Splitgate returned to Steam in December under a new name and a reset strategy, but the numbers that followed revived doubts about the franchise’s future. Splitgate: Arena Reloaded, the rebuilt version of what was once announced as Splitgate 2, peaked at fewer than 3,000 concurrent players on Valve’s platform in its latest update cycle. The figure arrived less than six months after the project was pulled back into beta following its initial release.

The relaunch capped a difficult year for 1047 Games. The studio originally released Splitgate: Arena Reloaded in June after months of marketing and positioning it as a major step forward for the portal-based shooter. Reviews landed in the middle range, with criticism focused on pacing, balance, and a sense that the sequel failed to meaningfully evolve the original formula. Momentum slowed further after a public relations controversy at Summer Games Fest, where studio founder Ian Proulx appeared wearing a "Make FPS Great Again” hat. The appearance drew sharp criticism, given the timing of ICE raids in the Los Angeles area surrounding the event. Community sentiment deteriorated quickly.

Within weeks of launch, 1047 Games reversed course. The studio removed the game from full release and returned it to beta, describing the move as a reset rather than a cancellation. Development continued quietly through the summer and fall. On Dec. 4, the game reemerged as Splitgate: Arena Reloaded, with revised systems, new modes, and a renewed focus on player feedback.

Early metrics following the relaunch showed limited traction. Steam Charts had it under 3,000 players, a steep drop from the June debut, which exceeded 10,000 concurrent users on day one and later climbed past 20,000 at its peak. The contrast fueled online discussion about whether the franchise could recover in a shooter market far more crowded than when the original Splitgate found success.

Rather than ignoring the numbers, the development team addressed them directly in a public statement posted on X (Twitter).

“Steam Charts don't measure fun. They show one number, on one platform, at one given moment. They don't show the full picture or what it feels like to actually play, and they definitely don't capture the community that's actively helping shape what Arena Reloaded is becoming (including upcoming content like Arena Royale),” — 1047 Games

The studio framed the relaunch as the result of a full rebuild rather than an incremental update.

“Over the past six months, we rebuilt Splitgate from the ground up because we believe in the game, our team, and our community. The 1027 team remains committed to delivering the best version of Splitgate possible. To our amazing community: thank you. Your feedback and passion have helped make Arena Reloaded better every day.” — 1047 Games

The message also included a direct appeal to players who have not yet tried the relaunch.

“And to everyone who hasn't played yet: Arena Reloaded is free, the gameplay's the best it's ever been, and we'd love for you to jump in and form your own opinion. A lot of passionate people worked very hard on it.” — 1047 Games

The broader market context remains a challenge. Arena Reloaded now competes with established franchises and upcoming releases, including Arc Raiders, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, Battlefield 6, and Highguard. Each targets overlapping audiences with larger marketing budgets and stronger brand recognition.

For Splitgate, the coming months will determine whether the relaunch can stabilize and grow through updates and word of mouth, or whether the franchise’s momentum has already passed its peak.