The studio AdHoc has taken a bold step in the gaming industry by opting for an episodic release format for their game Dispatch, despite advice against it. AdHoc's CEO, Michael Choung, acknowledged the risk and unconventional nature of the choice, describing Dispatch as an innovative blend of three feature-length animated films and a video game. Since its debut in October, the game has gained significant traction, surpassing one million copies sold within just ten days. The episodic approach has resulted in increasing player engagement, countering the usual expectation that subsequent releases would see reduced participation. Choung emphasized that while this success story is noteworthy, the episodic format is not universally applicable, stressing the necessity of strong narrative content for such a release strategy to succeed.

What makes the episodic release format successful for Dispatch?

The success of the episodic release format for Dispatch is attributed to its compelling narrative structure, fostering greater player engagement over time as the game unfolds. By scheduling releases weekly, AdHoc has cultivated anticipation and community discussions, which in turn has led to a steady rise in player numbers with each episode.

Dispatch represents a unique venture for AdHoc, marking its entry into the video game industry after seven years of preparation. As the first title from the studio, it aims to revolutionize the player experience through its distinct storytelling approach, blending elements of gaming and animated films. This innovative narrative style is designed to keep players invested over a longer period, a strategy that could redefine expectations for future episodic titles.