In the streaming world, there are two huge sensations right now: Michael ‘Shroud’ Grzesiek, and Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout. However, it’s unlikely the two will combine, with Shroud suggesting the game will die “real quick, for sure.”
Since his return to Twitch, Shroud has pulled in unbelievable numbers, attracting nine million viewers in his first week back. Fall Guys has also defied even the most optimistic of expectations, topping the Twitch charts on the day of release and shifting two million copies in a week.
However, where Fall Guys could still be a flash in the pan, Shroud has proven his consistent success. Controversial statements aren’t typically Shroud’s thing, however. He’s popular for his laid back attitude and calm demeanor, as well as his incredible technical ability. He definitely hasn’t said this to chase contrarian notoriety, so we have to take him at his word.
You can kind of understand where he’s coming from. Compared to Shroud’s favourites Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and Valorant, Fall Guys is far less complex and doesn’t have much of a discernible meta. Still, it’s the hottest game around right now, so it’s hard to imagine it fading so fast.
Shroud does offer them a reprieve, suggesting if they “add maps quickly,” the game could have a chance.
Of course, just because Shroud is speaking honestly doesn’t mean he’s correct. Shroud has streamed the game himself, though only once, and while he seemed to enjoy it, it might just be that the game isn’t for him.
The huge number of people playing and watching Fall Guys suggests that it definitely is for others though. Its popularity has also been helped by Tim ‘TimTheTatman‘ Betar, who went viral after being famously bad at the game.
With the current Fall Guys experience being billed as Season One, those “new maps” Shroud mentioned could yet becoming anyway. If new levels do arrive soon, expect Fall Guys to see another surge.