Why Was Only Up! Removed from Steam? The Definitive Explanation
Only Up!, the viral sensation that captivated gamers with its relentlessly challenging and often frustratingly addictive gameplay, was suddenly pulled from Steam in July 2023. The primary reason for its removal was the developer’s, SCKR Games, stated intention to take the game down because of stress and burnout experienced during the development process. The developer also cited a desire to take a break and focus on the development of a new game called “Kitori Academy”. However, underlying issues related to asset usage likely played a significant role in the final decision.
The Official Reason: Developer Burnout
The core of SCKR Games’ official statement revolved around the emotional and mental toll the game’s development had taken. Developing a game, particularly one that unexpectedly gains viral popularity, can be an intensely demanding process. The constant pressure to maintain the game, address bugs, and interact with the community can lead to significant burnout.
SCKR Games publicly acknowledged this strain, expressing a need to step away from “Only Up!” and recharge their creative batteries. This candid admission resonates with many indie developers who often work long hours with limited resources. The developer also expressed a desire to learn from the experience and put the gained knowledge into future projects. While the stated reason focused on burnout, several other factors were at play.
The Unspoken Factor: Asset Usage and Copyright Concerns
While burnout was presented as the main reason, the game’s reliance on pre-made assets, many of which were potentially used without proper licensing or attribution, likely contributed to the decision to remove “Only Up!” from Steam. The game environment featured a mishmash of assets sourced from various online marketplaces and potentially even ripped from other games. This raised serious concerns about copyright infringement.
Using unlicensed or improperly attributed assets can lead to legal repercussions, including takedown notices from copyright holders. While SCKR Games didn’t explicitly mention copyright concerns in their official statement, it’s highly probable that this looming threat influenced their decision to remove the game preemptively. Avoiding costly legal battles and protecting themselves from future complications associated with asset usage were most likely factors.
The Future of “Only Up!”
As of now, “Only Up!” is no longer available for purchase on Steam. However, it’s important to note that those who purchased the game before its removal can still download and play it from their Steam library. SCKR Games has not announced any plans to reinstate the game on Steam or any other platform. The developer’s focus remains on their new project, “Kitori Academy,” a game that is purportedly being built with carefully sourced and properly licensed assets. This move suggests a conscious effort to avoid the pitfalls that plagued “Only Up!”
Will There Be a Sequel or Similar Game?
While a direct sequel is unlikely given the circumstances surrounding the original game’s removal, the concept of a challenging platformer with a unique visual style could be revisited in future projects. SCKR Games has learned valuable lessons about asset usage, game design, and community management. They could potentially leverage this experience to create a similar, but legally sound, game in the future. Whether this happens remains to be seen, but the possibility is not entirely off the table.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to provide you with more information about the removal of “Only Up!” and related topics.
1. Why was “Only Up!” so popular?
“Only Up!” gained popularity due to its unique concept, high difficulty, and the viral nature of its gameplay. The constant threat of falling and losing progress created a compelling and often frustrating experience that resonated with streamers and viewers alike. The game’s bizarre and surreal environment also contributed to its appeal. The sense of accomplishment after overcoming challenging sections was highly rewarding, further fueling its popularity.
2. Can I still play “Only Up!” if I bought it before it was removed?
Yes, if you purchased “Only Up!” on Steam before it was removed, you can still download and play it from your Steam library. The removal only affected the game’s availability for new purchases.
3. Will “Only Up!” ever return to Steam?
As of the current situation, it is highly unlikely that “Only Up!” will return to Steam. The developer has stated their intention to move on to new projects and has not indicated any plans to reinstate the game.
4. What are the alternatives to “Only Up!”?
Several games offer a similar challenging platforming experience. Some popular alternatives include “Getting Over It with Bennett Foddy,” “Jump King,” and various parkour simulators. Search for games with tags like “rage game,” “difficult platformer,” or “parkour” on Steam and other platforms.
5. What is “Kitori Academy,” the developer’s new game?
“Kitori Academy” is the next project from SCKR Games. It’s a completely different type of game from “Only Up!”, focusing on a more relaxed and charming wizarding school simulation. The game aims to provide a more positive and less stressful development experience for the team.
6. What are pre-made assets in game development?
Pre-made assets are ready-made components that developers can use in their games, such as 3D models, textures, sound effects, and music. These assets can be purchased from online marketplaces or created by other developers and offered for free or for a fee.
7. What is copyright infringement in game development?
Copyright infringement occurs when a developer uses copyrighted material in their game without proper permission or licensing. This can include using assets, code, or other intellectual property that belongs to someone else without obtaining the necessary rights.
8. What are the consequences of copyright infringement?
The consequences of copyright infringement can be severe, ranging from takedown notices and legal threats to lawsuits and financial penalties. In some cases, developers may even be required to remove their game from sale or pay damages to the copyright holder.
9. How can developers avoid copyright issues?
Developers can avoid copyright issues by creating their own assets, purchasing assets with appropriate licenses, or using assets that are in the public domain. It’s crucial to carefully review the terms and conditions of any asset license before using it in a game. Proper attribution is also essential.
10. What is asset flipping?
Asset flipping is a practice where developers create a game primarily by assembling pre-made assets with minimal original content. This can often involve using unlicensed or improperly attributed assets, leading to copyright issues. It’s generally viewed negatively in the game development community.
11. Is it legal to use free assets in a commercial game?
Using free assets in a commercial game is legal as long as you comply with the asset’s license. Free assets often come with specific terms and conditions, such as attribution requirements or restrictions on commercial use. Always carefully read and understand the license before using any free asset.
12. What is the role of Steam in copyright enforcement?
Steam relies on copyright holders to report infringement. If a copyright holder believes that a game on Steam contains infringing material, they can file a takedown notice with Valve (the company behind Steam). Valve will then investigate the claim and may remove the game from the platform if the infringement is confirmed.
13. How does viral popularity impact indie game developers?
Viral popularity can have both positive and negative impacts on indie game developers. On the one hand, it can lead to increased sales and recognition. On the other hand, it can create intense pressure, long working hours, and stress related to maintaining the game, addressing bugs, and managing the community.
14. What are the common causes of burnout in game development?
Common causes of burnout in game development include long working hours, intense pressure to meet deadlines, lack of resources, constant crunch time, and isolation. The creative process can also be emotionally draining, contributing to burnout.
15. What lessons can other developers learn from the “Only Up!” situation?
The “Only Up!” situation highlights the importance of prioritizing developer well-being, carefully sourcing and licensing assets, and managing community expectations. Developers should strive to create a sustainable and healthy work environment while ensuring they have the legal rights to use all the content in their games. Planning and budgeting for asset creation are critical to long-term success and preventing legal issues down the line.