A StarCraft-Inspired RTS Lost Multiplayer Thanks to AI

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A strategy game similar to StarCraft recently lost its online multiplayer features because of issues with artificial intelligence. It’s not a sci-fi scenario like in Terminator, but AI is definitely changing the video game world, and not always for the better. While AI can be helpful, recent news has mostly focused on its negative impacts, and this situation is another example. When a powerful AI unexpectedly shuts down a game’s online services, it’s a problem for everyone involved.

Hathora announced on April 1, 2026, that the online multiplayer for Frost Giant Studios’ real-time strategy game, Stormgate, will be shut down in early May. This decision comes after Hathora was acquired by Fireworks AI. Stormgate, released in Summer 2025, received mixed reviews, but the bigger concern is what this means for game development. Hathora provided servers for Stormgate, and their new partnership with an AI company has led to the game losing its online functionality. Frost Giant Studios will now need to update Stormgate to allow players to enjoy it offline.

Stormgate Lost Its Servers to Fireworks AI

Stormgate hasn’t been a hit with players, despite raising nearly $2.8 million from crowdfunding and over $36.2 million from investors. Currently, it has mostly negative and mixed reviews on Steam. However, the game’s quality isn’t the main concern here. The real issue is that an AI company was able to acquire Hathora, an online service, and immediately disable online play for Stormgate, a game that relies on it.

It’s launch day for Stormgate, and the first reviews are in! IGN calls the game “GREAT,” saying it successfully blends classic and new elements for a really enjoyable real-time strategy experience. While still a work in progress, Stormgate is already shaping up to be something special. You can read the full review here:

— Frost Giant Studios (@Frost_Giant) August 5, 2025

Hathora recently announced their support for the game Stormgate, highlighting their ability to handle live game servers, but they didn’t mention they would be shutting down their services. This unexpected closure has left Frost Giant Studios in a difficult position. They announced on Steam that Hathora was acquired by an AI company and will stop operating at the end of April (Hathora specified May 5th). While Stormgate will receive an update allowing offline play, online features will no longer be available.

Stormgate’s Server Loss Could Be the Beginning of the End …

I’m not predicting disaster, but this pattern is concerning and likely to continue. AI companies are driving up the cost of computer parts like RAM, and it won’t just be one small game that suffers from large companies buying up others. The situation is clear: AI is becoming increasingly prevalent. Game developers should start planning new ways to publish and support their games to protect them from future acquisitions that could threaten long-term access.

What are your thoughts on a game being shut down because of decisions made by an AI company? Share your opinion in the comments and join the discussion on the ComicBook Forum!

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2026-04-06 23:46