Moon Studios, best known for the critically acclaimed Ori and the Blind Forest* series, has shattered another sales record with its action RPG No Rest for the Wicked. Just 15 days after announcing over 1 million copies sold, the studio revealed the title has now surpassed 1.5 million—marking a rapid ascent for a game still in active development.
The milestone arrives as the game closes out a limited-time 40% Steam discount, which likely fueled the surge. More importantly, it underscores the growing viability of indie studios self-publishing ambitious projects outside their traditional genres. No Rest for the Wicked began as an early access launch in May 2024, evolving through multiple updates—most recently adding co-op support in January 2026—a strategy that has clearly resonated with players.
For a studio that faced skepticism just two years ago over the challenges of competing in a market dominated by larger publishers, this success is a rare validation. The game’s rapid growth also serves as a counterpoint to broader industry concerns about the shrinking space for smaller developers.
From Early Access to Mainstream Appeal
The journey from early access to this sales milestone wasn’t just about raw numbers—it was about adapting. Since its 2024 launch, No Rest for the Wicked has undergone significant revisions, including performance improvements, new content expansions, and the recent co-op mode, which arrived just last month. These updates have kept players engaged long after the initial hype phase, a common struggle for early access titles.
What makes this achievement even more notable is Moon Studios’ decision to self-publish. In an era where securing a publisher is increasingly difficult for indie teams, the studio’s ability to fund and execute a high-quality action RPG—while maintaining creative control—positions it as a model for others. The game’s current pricing of $13.99 (after the discount) reflects its accessibility, likely contributing to its broad appeal.
Why This Matters for Indie Devs
Indie studios often face an uphill battle to prove their staying power, especially when pivoting from their established franchises. Moon Studios’ shift from 2D platformers to a 3D action RPG was a bold move, but the numbers suggest it paid off. The studio’s transparency—sharing updates, listening to player feedback, and delivering incremental improvements—has fostered a loyal community.
This success also comes at a time when concerns about market saturation and publisher consolidation are at the forefront of gaming industry discussions. No Rest for the Wicked*’s performance is a reminder that self-publishing can still work, provided the team remains agile and responsive to its audience.
The game’s next steps remain unclear—whether it will expand to consoles beyond Steam or continue refining its content—but for now, the sales figures speak for themselves. For Moon Studios, this isn’t just a milestone; it’s proof that indie innovation can still thrive.
