Why Schedule 1 is getting significantly positive reviews on Steam?

In just a few weeks of Schedule 1’s early access launch, the gritty indie crime simulator about building a drug empire skyrocketed to the top charts on Steam. With over 130,000 concurrent players and an overwhelmingly positive rating, the game perfectly blends strategic gameplay, dark humor, and co-op chaos in the viral hit. Overall, it is the 39th most popular all-time game on Steam, and here is what is driving its success.

Schedule 1 hooks the players with the addictive loop of rewards and risk. Starting as the small-time dealer, the player grinds to automate the production, outmaneuver the rival cartels, and evade police.

The open-world design of the game lets the players grow c@nn@bis in their motel rooms. It allows them to negotiate the deals through the in-game dark web and brawl with the bats— while balancing the cash flow and supply chain. It is the mix of absurdity and strategy (like stuffing the unconscious rivals into the trash cans) that strikes a chord with the fans of the titles Breaking Bad and GTA.
The co-op multiplayer amplifies chaos. The friends could split the roles— while one handles the production, another player can make the drops while scrambling to avoid the cops. The teamwork dynamic with unpredictable emergent moments, and NPC schedules creates some endless stories to share. The Content creators and streamers have fuelled the rise, turning the gameplay clips into viral marketing.

Solo developer TVGS (Tyler) gave priority to community feedback, the key factor in the glowing reviews of the fame. Before the launch, the free demo during the Steam Next Fest drew over 23,000 followers, with the players praising the dark comedy and polished mechanics. Tyler's roadmap promises monthly updates, including expanded maps, new drugs, and deeper business management systems, all of which are shaped by Discord and forum suggestions.
The transparency from the developer builds the trust. The players know Schedule 1 is not about any early access title that focuses on the cash grabs. Moreover, Tyler's commitment is evident, with the hotfixes rolling out right within a few hours of the launch and the heartfelt post made to thank the fans while ensuring that future plans are outlined. Priced at $17, with the offered 15% discount during the launch, felt fair for the depth offered by the game, especially in comparison to the other AAA titles.
Schedule 1 succeeds in merging the chaotic fun with the strategic depth, all wrapped within a stylized and cheeky world. Its co-op mode and developer responsiveness create a sense of community, which is rarely seen within indie launches. While the game is still within the early access, the momentum of the game shows no signs of slowing down. It proves that, at times, breaking bad is good business.