The publisher of Manor Lords has expressed that developers should not be compelled to work incessantly to the point of jeopardizing their mental well-being

Tim Bender, the head of Hooded Horse, the company publishing Manor Lords, has addressed accusations that the indie game serves as "an intriguing example of early access challenges".

Responding to remarks on LinkedIn, Bender emphasized that "not every game needs to strive to become a boom-and-bust live service" and stressed that "success should not constantly raise growth expectations."

Initially, Raphael van Lierop, CEO of Hinterland, commented on the high quality of Manor Lords but pointed out the reality faced by a "small team with a demanding audience". He later clarified his remarks, asserting his firm stance against crunch and denying any implications that the game wasn't a "major success".

"This skewed notion of perpetual growth and continuous high expectations is problematic for the gaming industry," Bender wrote.

Bender mentioned that Manor Lords surpassed 250,000 sales last month, following initial sales of over two million copies in its first three weeks. He proposed a shift in perspective regarding sales and player peaks, which naturally fluctuate.

“Our players are content, the developer is pleased, and we as the publisher are ecstatic,” Bender noted.

Bender concluded, "For the industry to adopt a more sustainable model, we must move away from such opinions. Success should not incessantly push for higher growth metrics."

He continued, "Not every game must aim to become explosive live services. A game's launch shouldn't signify a never-ending cycle of pressure on developers, risking their mental and physical well-being."

Before Manor Lords' debut, Bender had discussions with solo creator Greg Styczeń, advising him that the "Early Access journey is lengthy" and to disregard critics discussing missed opportunities.

"I advised him to stay true to his vision for the game and to ignore external expectations to maintain his mental peace and creative focus over the forthcoming years," Bender added.

Manor Lords surpasses 1 million sales within a day of Early Access launch.