Wardogs Studio Gives Its Team December Off, Tells Players to Do the Same

Bulkhead Interactive, the developer behind the breakout tactical FPS Wardogs, is taking an unconventional approach to the holiday season. CEO Joe Brammer has revealed that the entire studio will take the month of December off, and he’s encouraging players to follow suit.

A Surprise Hit That Exceeded All Expectations

Launched in early access this September, Wardogs quickly became a phenomenon. The 100-player multiplayer shooter was originally designed with a modest target of 5,000 concurrent users, but it shattered that goal by peaking at over 400,000 players in its first week. Estimates now put total sales around five million copies. While recent Steam reviews have dipped to “Mixed” with only 51% positive feedback, Brammer remains unfazed, emphasizing that the game was built to sustain a smaller, dedicated community over time.

A Well-Earned Break for the Team

In an interview with Edge magazine, Brammer explained that the team’s extraordinary efforts—often stretching beyond their official roles—warranted a full month of rest. He also had a blunt message for the player base: they should feel free to step away in December. Using colorful language, he suggested fans go play the upcoming GTA 6 instead, framing it as a chance for everyone to detox. This fits with Bulkhead’s irreverent marketing style, which previously included a self-deprecating video titled “10 Reasons NOT To Buy Wardogs.”

What This Means for Players

For the community, it’s a rare directive from a studio head to take a break, especially during a period of mixed feedback. It signals confidence that the game can endure without constant engagement and that the team will return refreshed for the eventual 1.0 launch. However, some players might interpret the move as dismissive of ongoing concerns about the game’s current state. Brammer’s past comments about avoiding hires who complain about crunch add another layer to the studio’s tough-love philosophy.

Do you think a forced break from your favorite game sounds refreshing, or does it feel like the developer is ignoring player feedback? Share your thoughts below.