Two years ago, Atomic Heart entered the video game industry as a controversial presence, at least in this part of our planet. Despite its undeniable qualities, the game received lukewarm reviews from a cautious Western press, which was hesitant about Russia’s entry into large-scale first-person shooters and more focused on trivial controversies. The result was an average score of 70% on Metacritic. However, this did not prevent players from enthusiastically engaging with it, and two years later, we learn that Atomic Heart has surpassed a significant milestone: over 10 million players worldwide. Mundfish took the opportunity to remind us what their game signifies today, stating:
It surprised the world by establishing itself as an unexpected AAA success, signed by an unknown studio.
According to Metacritic, it has become the most discussed PC game of the first half of 2023.
It has redefined visual and cinematic standards in the FPS genre.
They have proven that new studios can create an original franchise, even in an industry dominated by established licenses.
Blending retrofuturism, daring narrative choices, and distinctive artistic direction to forge a unique identity at the crossroads of genres.
Atomic Heart, which was met with skepticism from Western press upon its 2021 release due to its Russian origin, defied expectations by attracting over 10 million players worldwide. Despite receiving an average Metacritic score of 70%, the game became the most-discussed PC title in the first half of 2023. Mundfish, the developer, emphasized its success as an unexpected AAA achievement from a previously unknown studio, redefining visual and cinematic standards in the FPS genre. Atomic Heart distinguishes itself with its retrofuturistic style, bold narrative, and distinctive art direction, proving that new studios can indeed create original franchises in a market dominated by established licenses.
It won the Steam Award for Exceptional Visual Style (2023) and was nominated for the Hollywood Music in Media Awards (2023).
It has enriched its universe with three major DLCs centered on the story, solidifying its status as a modern cult classic. A final DLC is currently under development.
Mundfish, aiming to establish itself as a full-fledged publisher, announces today the launch of Mundfish Powerhouse, a new label designed to support ambitious projects. Unlike traditional publishers, Mundfish Powerhouse intends to be an operational and creative partner capable of intervening at every stage, from conception to release, including production and marketing. As Robert Bagratuni, founder and creative director of Mundfish, puts it, the philosophy of Mundfish Powerhouse is “fewer games, but bigger, bolder, more singular.” The studio aims to offer its expertise to other creators while maintaining high standards. Powerhouse focuses on impact rather than volume.
Regarding Atomic Heart itself, the journey continues as a final DLC is being prepared following three narrative expansions. This DLC will likely conclude the first cycle of content—possibly opening up new avenues as well. We will keep you updated on any developments.
For those who have delved into the retrofuturistic world of Atomic Heart, the latest narrative DLC, “Annihilation Instinct,” is now available and promises to unlock new layers of the game’s intricate story. Released on August 2nd by Marcus Thompson, this expansion introduces players to Facility 3826 once again, where they will face new challenges and enemies while exploring the depths of NORA’s history. With a fresh arsenal including the Secateur and Klusha weapons, “Annihilation Instinct” delivers an unparalleled gameplay experience that fans won’t want to miss. Head over to Atomic Heart: Narrative DLC Unleashes Total Annihilation in Gameplay for a detailed dive into this thrilling new chapter.
