Escape From Duckov and Battlefield 6 are worlds apart. One is a quirky indie shooter, and the other is a massive franchise. Surprisingly, the indie game is winning the battle for player attention.
When Battlefield 6 first debuted, it attracted an impressive 747,440 players on Steam. This number confirmed that the Battlefield brand is still a heavyweight in the gaming world.
However, within a few weeks, Escape From Duckov, created by the indie team Team Soda, surpassed all expectations. Its mix of fast-paced extraction gameplay and whimsical duck-themed combat has made it a viral sensation on PC. What began as a small-scale indie project is now pulling in more players than Battlefield 6.
According to SteamDB, Escape From Duckov recently peaked at 152,207 concurrent players, while Battlefield 6 had 129,729 around the same time. For a small studio, this is a remarkable milestone.
The success of Escape From Duckov highlights how quickly an indie game can rise to fame. Both games are still thriving, but Duckov is currently ahead in active player counts. The contrast in their player bases demonstrates the exciting possibilities in gaming. While Battlefield 6’s peak numbers are higher, having such robust competition is a good sign for the industry.
Looking ahead, Battlefield 6 launches its first season on October 28, which could boost its player numbers again. Still, for now, the underdog has taken the lead, showcasing the power of unique gameplay and creativity in the indie space.
This trend isn’t just limited to these games. A recent survey found that 70% of players enjoy trying indie titles, indicating a shift in gamer preferences. Many are looking for fresh experiences, and Escape From Duckov reflects this desire perfectly.
The gaming community embraces new ideas, and indie developers are at the forefront of this change. Escape From Duckov is not just a game—it’s a testament to the creative spirit in gaming today.
As indie games continue to break through, they remind us that innovation can come from anywhere. For more on the ever-evolving gaming landscape, check out the latest insights from Gamasutra.

