Earth Defense Force 6 review bombed on Steam for requiring Epic Games launcher

Japanese developer Sandlot’s latest game, Earth Defense Force 6, is facing criticism on Steam for requiring the Epic Games launcher for online play.

While the game can be played solo, online play currently necessitates the use of the Epic Games launcher, a requirement that was not made clear at the game’s launch.

The decision to use the Epic Games launcher has sparked backlash from players due to concerns about spyware and bugs associated with the platform. This is the first time the Earth Defense Force series has used the Epic Games launcher, as previous installments were available on the PlayStation Network.

As of now, Earth Defense Force 6 has received “Mostly Negative” reviews on Steam.

This incident follows similar backlash faced by Helldivers II when it required a PlayStation Network account, leading to a review-bombing and subsequent reversal of the decision.

Both Sandlot and Epic Games have yet to address the situation.

Earth Defense Force 6 was released on July 25th for Windows PC (via Steam), PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5.