In an unexpected turn of events, Fntastic, the Singapore-based studio behind the ill-fated game The Day Before, has resurfaced with a new project and a plea for a second chance. The Day Before developers which closed its doors shortly after the disastrous early access launch of The Day Before in December 2023, is now seeking public support through a Kickstarter campaign for their latest venture, “Escape Factory.”
Once, you helped us create Fntastic through Kickstarter.
Today, we need your help again to bring Fntastic back!
Learn more and support us: https://t.co/6CB75yGWnE#fntastic #propnight #escapefactory— Fntastic (@FntasticHQ) September 26, 2024
Fntastic’s official X/Twitter account announced the campaign, stating, “Once, you helped us create Fntastic through Kickstarter. Today, we need your help again to bring Fntastic back!” The post directs interested parties to the studio’s website, which outlines their plans for the future.
In a notable inclusion to their Kickstarter rewards, Fntastic is offering an “unforgettable” dinner with the company’s founders for a pledge of $12,000. This tier includes Special Sponsor credits, website recognition, and Elite Discord status.
Fntastic describes Escape Factory as a multiplayer co-op experience. A free demo is currently available on Steam, allowing potential backers to sample the gameplay before committing to the Kickstarter. The crowdfunding campaign aims to raise $15,535 to complete the game’s development.
Alongside the game announcement, Fntastic has published a detailed plan dubbed “Fntastic 2.0.” This document addresses the studio’s past mistakes and outlines their strategy for rebuilding trust and their brand. Key points include a renewed focus on honesty, transparency, and professionalism, as well as specific objectives for 2024 and 2025.
The studio’s website also features an FAQ section, addressing concerns about previous projects and legal issues. Fntastic confirms they have lost all legal rights to their previous games, including “Propnight” and “The Day Before.” They also state that they are “not in conflict with anyone and are ready to start from scratch.”
The studio acknowledges the controversy surrounding their previous release, stating on their website, “Everyone deserves a second chance. We deeply apologize to everyone for The Day Before and take full responsibility for what happened.” As of now, the Kickstarter campaign for Escape Factory has attracted minimal support. Fntastic has made it clear that if the campaign doesn’t reach its funding goal, they “won’t be able to return.”