Title: Schedule 1: The Indie Drug Dealer Simulator Making Waves on Steam
In a gaming world often ruled by large studios and hefty budgets, an unexpected newcomer has stepped into the spotlight—Schedule 1. This indie simulation, crafted by a solo developer, is enchanting a vast audience on Steam with its original concept: ascend from a low-level street dealer to an influential drug lord, all in a virtual environment that demands neither illegal activities nor substance use.
Even with its simple art design and somewhat awkward animations, Schedule 1 has shown that engaging gameplay and a solid idea can outshine polished visuals and well-known publishers. The game’s swift rise to fame has established it as one of the most discussed titles on Steam for 2025.
Examining Schedule 1’s Rapid Ascent
As per data from SteamDB, Schedule 1 recently achieved an impressive 414,150 simultaneous players, earning it a spot among the top 30 most-played games on the platform. Over a 24-hour span, the game surged to fourth place in active player count—surpassing established favorites like GTA V and Marvel Rivals.
Even more astounding is the game’s financial performance. During its launch week beginning March 25, 2025, Schedule 1 clinched the top position on Steam’s best-seller list, outpacing giants like Counter-Strike 2. Such an accomplishment is uncommon for any title, especially one created by an individual developer.
Currently in Early Access and priced at just under $20, the game also offers a free demo for those interested in testing it before purchasing. With a remarkable 98% positive user rating, it’s evident that players are not only acquiring the game—they’re genuinely enjoying it.
Who is the Creator?
The genius behind Schedule 1 is Tyler, known online as TVGS. In a Reddit discussion, Tyler expressed his feelings about the game’s unforeseen triumph, calling it “fantastic, yet quite overwhelming.” He acknowledged he never expected such an enormous reaction from the gaming community.
Instead of resting on his successes, Tyler is already diligently working on the next development stage. His immediate focus includes releasing patches to fix bugs and introducing the first batch of content updates to keep players invested.
Gameplay: From Low-Level Dealer to Drug Tycoon
Schedule 1 provides a raw, strategic simulation where players begin at the base of the drug trade and progress upwards. The game challenges players to manage resources, establish networks, and outsmart competitors—all while dodging law enforcement and staying under the radar.
What differentiates Schedule 1 is its blend of realism and approachability. While the theme is sensitive, the game navigates it with an emphasis on strategy and simulation instead of glorification. It’s an environment for players to explore the dynamics of an underground economy without real-life repercussions.
Community and Engagement
The game’s community has played a crucial role in its success. Players are actively engaging on forums and social media, sharing tips, tactics, and guides—like the most effective strategies for making in-game currency. This grassroots passion has helped Schedule 1 maintain its momentum and draw in new players every day.
Looking Forward
With its strong debut, favorable reception, and ongoing development, Schedule 1 is set to become a lasting success. Tyler’s dedication to enhancing and broadening the game indicates that the future holds even more exciting developments.
Whether you’re drawn to the simulation genre or simply wish to support indie developers, Schedule 1 is an impressive example of what can happen when innovation and enthusiasm come together. It’s more than just a game—it’s a phenomenon, and it’s reshaping the perception of success for solo developers in the gaming field.
For those eager to jump in, Schedule 1 is now available on Steam in Early Access, complete with a free demo to kick off your journey from street dealer to virtual drug overlord.