According to data released by Alinea Analytics, Gears of War: E-Day sold only 62,000 copies on the Xbox platform (including console and PC). The game's total sales since launch stand at just 230,000 copies, with the Steam platform accounting for the majority at 168,000.
Statistics show that Gears of War: E-Day generated only $37 million in revenue across PC Steam and Xbox platforms. Due to poor sales, many naturally attribute this to Game Pass being the primary cause, having cannibalized much of the potential sales volume.
It is reported that a total of 1.7 million players enjoyed the game through this service. However, although the subscription model cannibalized some pure sales, Game Pass also generated considerable revenue for Xbox through the paid premium upgrade for Gears of War: E-Day.
In the five days leading up to the game's launch, 722,000 Game Pass subscribers paid $30 for early access to the shooter. Ultimately, 75% of Gears of War: E-Day's revenue came from the Xbox platform, contributing $26 million, while Steam generated only $11 million.
Although the premium upgrade brought in significant revenue, this exclusive title did not create the buzz people expected from a AAA blockbuster.
Considering the disappointing performance of Gears of War: E-Day on Steam, one can't help but wonder whether the cannibalization effect of Game Pass is the sole reason for this exclusive title's failure.