Art style and character design

[Tortoiseshel]

I like what they're going for with the character designs, but I think the realistic art style is working against it. They're clearly aiming for this sort of iconic, larger than life sci fi vibe (no doubt inspired by... other hero shooters, let's say), but the strictly realistic proportions and naturalistic lighting I feel is preventing it from realizing its potential.

I saw a bit of those Freegunner Adventure animated shorts (just a glance, haven't watched any all the way through) and immediately thought, "This should've been what the game looked like!" The cel-shaded, comic book-inspired style of those shorts really highlights the unique elements of each character's design, is more congruent with the overall (apparent) tone of the project, AND it likely would've helped the game stand out a lot more from its competitors. Not to mention I just think it looks fantastic!

Sadly, for all the work and passion that I'm sure went into Concord, I really can't say I'm surprised with the lackluster launch. I don't think anything could've saved this. A full price hero shooter in 2024 with unfocused art direction and marketing never stood a chance. Maybe going F2P might salvage it somewhat, but I don't have super high hopes.