The MOBA genre is currently facing significant challenges. Two of its giants, Dota 2 and League of Legends, are experiencing difficulties. Dota 2, developed by Valve, is increasingly becoming a niche product, particularly popular in Eastern Europe. Meanwhile, Riot Games struggles to revitalize League of Legends, a game that many feel has entered its later stages.
In the midst of these struggles, Garena has announced the revival of Heroes of Newerth, a game that once rivaled these titans in the early 2010s but was later discontinued. The new version is being developed on a modern engine, and the trailer has generated some excitement. While this news might seem like a cause for celebration, there are several concerns to consider.
Firstly, Heroes of Newerth is a re-release of a live-service game that is over a decade old. The MOBA genre has lost some of its former popularity, with many players shifting to newer gaming trends and platforms. This raises questions about the game's ability to recapture its former audience.
Secondly, Garena's track record in supporting projects and esports has often been questioned. The company's assertion that it always believed in Heroes of Newerth's potential is contradicted by the decision to shut it down previously. This inconsistency raises doubts about Garena's commitment to the game's long-term success.
Thirdly, the game is set to launch on the iGames platform, which is partially crowdfunded. This choice is puzzling, especially when considering the absence of Steam, Valve's platform. Launching on Steam could significantly increase the game's visibility and accessibility, making it harder to attract a large audience without it.
Image: igames.com
These factors suggest that Heroes of Newerth might remain a niche project with potential for organic growth, but the concerns are substantial. On a positive note, the game is slated for release within the next year, providing a clear timeline for its return.
