Fans of horror gaming were dealt a shocking blow as Evil Dead: The Game, developed by Saber Interactive, has been unexpectedly pulled from digital storefronts. The removal applies to platforms such as Steam, Epic Games Store, and PlayStation, leaving many fans surprised and speculating about the reasons behind this decision.
Here’s everything we know about the situation, what it means for current and future players, and the possible reasons the game has been quietly removed from sale.
What Happened?
On April 30, 2025, Saber Interactive confirmed via a Steam announcement that Evil Dead: The Game has begun the process of being removed from digital storefronts. Despite the game no longer being available for new buyers, existing players who purchased it before the takedown will still be able to enjoy it, as the servers supporting multiplayer will remain online “for the foreseeable future.”
The game first launched in 2022 and proved to be popular, selling over 500,000 copies within its first five days. However, its trajectory took a turn when Saber Interactive announced in September 2023 that no further content updates would be developed, and the planned Nintendo Switch release was canceled.
What Made Evil Dead: The Game Stand Out?
A thrilling multiplayer experience, Evil Dead: The Game blended survival horror and action gameplay inspired by classics like Dead by Daylight and Left 4 Dead. It allowed players to step into the shoes of iconic Evil Dead characters like Ash Williams and battle against evil forces in co-op or PvP gameplay modes. The game was notable for its faithful homage to the Evil Dead franchise, capturing the humor, gore, and chaos fans love.
Possible Reasons for the Removal
While Saber Interactive has not provided a clear explanation for the game’s removal, there are several likely reasons that could explain this development:
1. Licensing Issues
One of the most speculated reasons is licensing challenges. Video games based on existing franchises often rely on licensing agreements, and these agreements may expire if not renewed. If Saber Interactive could not reach an agreement with the rights holders of the Evil Dead franchise, the game might have needed to be taken down.
2. End of Publisher/Developer Contract
Another possibility is that the agreement between Saber Interactive and the game’s publisher or stakeholders reached its conclusion, and neither party pursued extending the lifecycle of the game in digital marketplaces.
3. Focus on Future Projects
Saber Interactive may be reallocating resources to focus on other games or new development projects instead of continuing to maintain or promote Evil Dead: The Game. This would align with their previous announcement to halt new content updates for the game.
4. Technical and Online Support Challenges
If maintaining the game’s servers or addressing technical issues became impractical or financially unviable, this could have influenced the decision to remove the game. With declining player numbers (e.g., the Steam version peaked at only 586 concurrent players based on SteamDB), sustaining the infrastructure may no longer make financial sense.
What Does This Mean for Fans?
For those who already own the game, the good news is that it remains playable, with servers kept online for multiplayer gameplay. However, with no further updates or content planned, the game’s community may gradually decline over time. New players, unfortunately, will not have the opportunity to purchase or experience Evil Dead: The Game unless physical copies become available through secondary markets.
It’s worth noting that this is not the first time a beloved game has disappeared from digital storefronts. Other games, such as Spec Ops: The Line and several Adult Swim titles, have been pulled due to similar licensing or logistical issues.
The Future of Evil Dead Games
While the removal of Evil Dead: The Game marks a sad chapter for fans, it highlights the challenges of maintaining licensed games in the digital age. For now, dedicated fans of the Evil Dead franchise can only hope for a future revival or spiritual successor to continue the legacy of Ash Williams in the gaming world.
Final Thoughts
The unexpected removal of Evil Dead: The Game serves as a reminder of the impermanence of digital gaming. While it’s reassuring that existing owners can continue playing, the absence of clear communication has left the gaming community puzzled and disappointed. For those who loved stepping into this chaotic, gore-filled world, cherish the moments you still have with this modern cult classic.
