The highly anticipated football game UFL has officially delayed its release date from September 12, 2024, to December 5, 2024. This announcement comes from Strikerz Inc., the development team behind UFL, following feedback from their latest beta test, the Common Test. The decision to push back the launch reflects the developers’ commitment to delivering a polished and high-quality product.
🚨 BREAKING: UFL release date has been moved from September 12th to December 5th, 2024!
Early-Access starts on November 28th. ⚽️ 🎮 pic.twitter.com/VMq1nhjhC0
— 𝙄𝙉𝙁𝙄𝙉𝙄𝙏𝙔 𝙁𝘾 (@theinfinityfc) September 2, 2024
Why the Delay Was Necessary
The original September release date was strategically chosen to capitalize on the lull in interest for EA FC 25, giving UFL a chance to capture the attention of football gaming enthusiasts. However, Strikerz Inc. recognized that launching an unfinished game could have detrimental effects on UFL’s long-term success. Instead of rushing to market, they chose to prioritize player experience, ensuring that UFL meets the community’s high expectations.
First impressions matter in the gaming industry, and Strikerz Inc. has shown that they understand this well. The decision to delay the game wasn’t easy, but it was necessary. Feedback from the community following the final beta test which went live on August 26, as well as the previous betas highlighted several areas needing refinement, particularly in the game’s physics, ball interactions, and overall gameplay mechanics. By addressing these issues, Strikerz Inc. is aiming to deliver a football game that stands out in a crowded market.
I don't think the game was ready for release in a week. Dropping an unfinished product to capitalise on FC 24 being dead is not a winning strategy
They would have had great engagement for a few days but no one is sticking around for a game that isn't ready. They needed more time https://t.co/jGZTWHCIjs
— The FUT Universe (@TheFUT_Universe) September 2, 2024
The Risks of a December Release
While the delay allows for further improvements, it does come with significant risks. December is a competitive time to release a new football game. By then, EA FC 25 will be dominating the market, fuelled by holiday sales and a surge in new content for Ultimate Team. Players will be deeply engaged with EA’s title, making it challenging for UFL to attract attention.
Streamers, who play a crucial role in popularizing new games, might also be reluctant to switch from EA FC 25 during this period. Their viewership and income often depend on staying with trending games, which means UFL will need to offer something truly exceptional to draw their interest.
To move your release date from before EAFC25 comes out to during close to its most popular time of the year is a strange to say the least decision https://t.co/pWnVpGrOnn
— Piquelme (@Piquelme21) September 2, 2024
Despite these challenges, Strikerz Inc. has consistently shown a strong commitment to quality and community feedback. The decision to delay UFL’s release underscores their dedication to delivering a game that meets players’ expectations. The improvements they’re focusing on, from enhanced physics to smoother gameplay, demonstrate their understanding of what makes a football game enjoyable and competitive.
As UFL approaches its December release, the pressure is on Strikerz Inc. to deliver a product that can compete with the industry’s biggest players. The additional development time gives them the opportunity to refine the game and address the feedback from the community. If they succeed, UFL could still make a significant impact, even in a crowded and competitive market.
