If you've been active on platforms like Steam, Twitch, or gaming-focused YouTube channels recently, you're likely familiar with Schedule I, an indie drug dealer simulator that's skyrocketing in popularity. It's currently the top-selling game on Valve's platform, surpassing heavyweights like Monster Hunter Wilds, GTA 5, and Marvel Rivals, thanks to its viral spread across social media.
Schedule I hit the market just last week and has swiftly climbed to the top of Valve’s best-selling and most-played charts. Here's the official description:
From small-time dope pusher to kingpin - manufacture and distribute a range of drugs throughout the grungy city of Hyland Point. Expand your empire with properties, businesses, employees, and more.
The game is a creation of TVGS, also known as Tyler, who recently shared his thoughts on the game's explosive launch on Reddit.
“Honestly, it’s amazing but pretty overwhelming,” Tyler said. “I never expected this kind of response! At the moment, I’m just trying to stay focused and get patches out ASAP. Also looking forward to getting started on content updates as soon as all major bugs are patched.”
In line with this commitment, Schedule I released its Post-launch Patch #4 on March 29, addressing several employee bugs and multiplayer issues.
So, how successful is Schedule I? It's not just any game; it's now the top-selling title on Steam, outperforming competitors ranging from inZOI (a Sims rival) to Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Valve's top-selling chart is based on revenue, indicating that the budget-priced Schedule I is generating more income than its full-priced, triple-A counterparts.
Regarding player engagement, Schedule I reached a peak of 414,166 concurrent players on Steam over the weekend, securing its place among the top 30 most-played games ever on the platform. At the time of writing, it boasts more active players than Monster Hunter Wilds, GTA 5, and Marvel Rivals.
The game's community is equally enthusiastic. On Steam, Schedule I enjoys an 'overwhelmingly positive' user review rating, with 98% of reviews being positive. Here’s a glimpse into what players are saying:
- "A woman came up to me and asked for weed, didn't like the price I offered, proceeded to stab me with a broken glass bottle. 10/10"
- "Love this game"
- "I was dealing drugs in an RV and it blew up"
- "Got a motel and sold some weed"
- "Created a meth empire"
- "Then hopped on the game"
- "Really great and hilarious game. Fun game loop and hilarious fun when playing with friends. I know it is in early access but I'd like the police to be a bit more active (They could search your place, look for you even after escaping, run speed greater than the players) as well as gang warfare and a larger map. Still in its current state, it's brilliant. Defo a 10/10"
Schedule I thrives as a meme game, but its longevity remains to be seen. Regardless, Tyler's life has undoubtedly been transformed by this success, and fans can look forward to substantial content updates.
For those diving into Schedule I, don't miss out on IGN’s comprehensive guides, including Schedule I Cheats and Console Commands and Schedule I Multiplayer: How to Play Co-Op.
