Development on Splitgate is only about 25% complete, according to developer 1047 Games, following renewed interest in free FPS from gamers and spendthrift investors.

The original 1047 Games version on a Halo-meets-Portal hybrid was originally scheduled to leave Early Access in July, but the launch of the game’s console beta saw a massive increase in player numbers, leading the developer to delay its full launch indefinitely so that it can continue working on improvements. Now, having secured over $ 100 million in funding from investors, we have a much clearer idea of ​​the scope of the project. In a new interview with TechCrunch, 1047 Games CEO and co-founder Ian Proulx said the game is still in the early stages of development.

“The reach of what we can do now is through the roof,” said Proulx. “There are so many things we couldn’t think of because we were a small team on a tight budget, but now everything is on the table. We are focusing on the long term – I consider the game to be over at 25 %. We don’t have to be Fortnite tomorrow, but now it’s really about building the next Riot Games, the next big games company. “

Proulx largely attributes the accessibility of Splitgate to its success, citing the lack of options in the multiplayer FPS space that are both easy to access and deep enough to make seasoned players want more.

“People grew up playing these games, and the reason [the market] is dead, not because they have stopped loving them, ”he added. “Nobody moved the needle because there wasn’t a lot of innovation, and there wasn’t something that was accessible to the masses. Quake Arena is great, but it’s extremely difficult. No 12-year-old Fortnite kid is going to play it. We are really filling that void. “

Whether you’ve played it yourself or heard about its recent popularity, there’s no denying that Splitgate is a good time. What will be interesting to see is whether the imminent launch of the FPS juggernaut Halo Infinite will have any impact on its player base.

To play it all with friends right now, check out our full guide to best cooperative games in 2021.