The Steam FPS title, Fortune's Run, faces an indefinite delay due to its sole developer, Dizzie, receiving a three-year prison sentence. This unexpected setback throws the game's early access release into limbo.
While development delays in Steam games are common, often stemming from financial or technical issues, Fortune's Run's predicament is unique. Dizzie's incarceration completely halts development. Prior to this news, Fortune's Run had garnered a "Very Positive" rating on Steam, praised for its nostalgic art style and engaging gameplay.
Dizzie revealed the news in a January 14th Steam update, stating the sentence, unrelated to the game's development, stems from past actions. While the specific crime remains undisclosed, Dizzie acknowledged a violent past. Although unusual, this isn't the first instance of a game developer facing legal repercussions impacting development.
Originally, Fortune's Run had a second team member, but they departed following a surgery and subsequent disinterest in game development. Therefore, Dizzie's imprisonment effectively pauses all progress. The game's Steam page still targets a 2026 release from early access, a goal now highly improbable. However, lengthy early access periods are not uncommon for indie games; Satisfactory, for example, spent over five years in early access.
Dizzie assures fans of their intent to complete Fortune's Run upon release from prison. The game remains playable in its current state, and players seeking similar experiences can explore other excellent early access shooters on Steam.