While exact sales figures remain undisclosed, the developer attributes the game’s strong performance to its inclusion in Xbox and PC Game Pass, which provided broad exposure and encouraged rapid player adoption. This accessibility not only lowered the barrier to entry but also amplified organic word-of-mouth promotion, helping drive both player numbers and long-term commercial success.
Rebellion has confirmed that Atomfall’s success has opened the door for future possibilities, with the studio currently exploring ideas for sequels and spin-offs, while continuing to support the game with ongoing updates and DLC.
In a conversation with The Game Business, Rebellion emphasized that launching through Game Pass did not harm sales but instead created a balanced ecosystem where exposure and revenue coexist. Jason Kingsley, Rebellion’s CEO, previously explained to IGN sister site GamesIndustry.biz that Game Pass offers a safety net through guaranteed minimum payouts from Microsoft, reducing financial risk even if direct sales are lower.
"Whatever a game sells, Microsoft ensures a certain level of income," Kingsley noted, highlighting that the return on investment through exposure far outweighs the potential downsides. He added that Game Pass acts as a powerful discovery tool, allowing players to try the game with no upfront cost—many of whom then share their positive experiences on social media.
“That word-of-mouth effect is huge,” Kingsley said. “Players tell their friends, ‘I found this great game on Game Pass,’ and while some will play it through the service, others who aren’t subscribers will go out and buy it just to join the conversation.”
Microsoft maintains confidentiality around its financial agreements with developers, so the exact revenue split between Rebellion and Microsoft remains unknown. However, it’s clear that successful Game Pass titles like Atomfall benefit both parties—Rebellion gains profitability and visibility, while Microsoft strengthens the value of its subscription service.
At the time of Atomfall’s launch, Microsoft last reported 34 million Xbox Game Pass subscribers as of February 2024, though current numbers are expected to be higher. The game’s inclusion in the service likely contributed to rapid player acquisition and sustained engagement.
"Atomfall is a gripping survival-action adventure that takes some of the best elements of Fallout and Elden Ring, and synthesises them into its own fresh mutation," IGN stated in its official review.
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