Obsidian Director Josh Sawyer Discusses Job Insecurity in Gaming Industry

What's Happening?

Josh Sawyer, the studio design director at Obsidian, shared his concerns about job security in the gaming industry during a keynote at GCAP, a game development conference in Melbourne, Australia. Despite his 26-year career and involvement in successful titles like Fallout: New Vegas, Sawyer expressed that he has never felt secure in his job, a sentiment he believes is shared by many in the industry. He highlighted the shift from small development teams to larger ones, which has not necessarily improved job security or working conditions. Instead, the industry faces issues like short-term contracts, mass burnout, and stagnant wages, despite the growth in game development cycles and the industry's financial success.

Why It's Important?

Sawyer's insights shed light on the precarious nature of employment in the gaming industry, which is concerning given its significant economic contributions. The lack of job security and the prevalence of burnout among developers can impact the industry's ability to attract and retain talent, potentially affecting the quality and innovation of future games. Additionally, the industry's reliance on outsourcing and short-term contracts may hinder the development of stable career paths for professionals. Sawyer's comments also highlight the need for industry-wide changes to improve working conditions and ensure fair compensation for developers.

Beyond the Headlines

Sawyer noted positive changes in diversity within the industry, partly due to remote work accommodations. This shift has allowed for greater inclusion of women, queer, and trans individuals, contrasting with the less diverse environment he experienced early in his career. While job security remains a challenge, the increased diversity may lead to more inclusive and innovative game development, reflecting a broader range of perspectives and experiences.