Wardogs: multiplayer FPS with Linux controversy and high player counts

In short

Wardogs, Bulkhead’s upcoming multiplayer FPS, attracted more than 100,000 concurrent players during its playtest, and the open beta even peaked at over 245,000 concurrent players. That points to strong interest in the game, especially given competition from established titles like Call of Duty. However, Bulkhead’s decision not to offer official Linux support has sparked frustration in the Linux community, which feels left out.

GAME-scanner analysis

Bulkhead’s choice not to support Linux may be strategic, aimed at maximizing performance on the most popular gaming platforms. But it could also mean losing a loyal player base that values inclusivity. The backlash from the Linux community could damage Bulkhead’s reputation and potentially affect Wardogs’ sales, especially if the game fails to meet player expectations. The developer has since acknowledged a “miscommunication” about expectations around Linux support, but the damage appears to have already been done.

What does this mean for players?

For gamers on Linux, the lack of official support means they may not be able to play Wardogs without emulation or other workaround solutions. That can lead to frustration and a sense of exclusion, which may affect the overall experience of the game. Players on other platforms, meanwhile, can benefit from the high player counts and a lively multiplayer environment, which should strengthen the competitive experience.