For an example of how Epic Games money hatting works, read this:
As you can see, even if everyone canceled their preorder or got a refund, Phoenix Point STILL makes money. There are several other examples of this same thibg happening to other now Epic Exclusive games. This is Epic's way of being anti competitive hypocrites paying to keep .
If you're being to lazy to click the link or read the entire Reddit post, here is just one single quote by Phoenix Points developer themselves.
Keep in mind that we knew there would be backlash. We knew there would be refunds. If we had to refund 100% of currently pre-orders, we'd still be in the black. We didn't make the decision lightly
Obviously I can't go into details about the deal - but it's for a minimum guarantee - which means Epic will guarantee that we will sell X number of copies. Even if we don't hit that number, they still pay us.
Again, let me just be clear. Yes, we're being "paid" by Epic (it's actually a minimum sales guarantee).This wasn't a decision we made over night
We knew there would be upset, anger and outrage. We knew there would be refunds. This was all factored into our decision.
Still a lot with a minimum guarantee. Enough to keep the studio running for years to come - and that was the point of this. It significantly reduces our risk on launch and means we can continue to provide content and updates
Phoenix Point is also previously a Kickstarted Steam Game btw.
Yes, it is good for the developer, but that is entirely irrelevant to the consumers rights or choice. Its them being paid money in exchange for exclusivity to one platform. It isnt pocket change, its millions of dollars.
Epic are hurting PC gaming with their bullshit practices and I feel for everyone affected even if I am not myself.
I mean, yes its iterally a deal that is just too good to refuse but that is exactly why it is anti competitive. The lack of the 30% fee is obviously not enough incentive to keep Publishers/Developers off Steam by itself, instead Epic has to inject a heavy cashflow upfront, before sales to keep games off other services. Valve doesnt pull shit like this.