What's Happening?
Mighty Coconut, the studio behind the popular VR game Walkabout Mini Golf, has announced layoffs affecting approximately 25% of its workforce. This decision comes as the company faces economic pressures
within the virtual reality space, which has been influenced by shifting priorities at major platforms like Meta. The studio plans to increase the price of future downloadable content (DLC) courses to $4.99, while existing courses will remain at $3.99. Additionally, development for the Pocket Edition on iPhones will be paused, focusing efforts on VR content. The studio aims to maintain crossplay between VR and mobile for as long as possible but anticipates sunsetting this feature eventually.
Why It's Important?
The layoffs and strategic adjustments at Mighty Coconut underscore the challenges faced by VR developers in a rapidly evolving market. As major platforms like Meta adjust their strategies, smaller studios must adapt to remain viable. The decision to increase DLC prices reflects the need to balance financial sustainability with consumer expectations. This situation highlights the broader economic pressures within the VR industry, where innovation and creativity must be balanced with practical business considerations. The changes at Mighty Coconut may influence other VR developers facing similar challenges, potentially leading to shifts in pricing models and content strategies across the industry.
What's Next?
Mighty Coconut plans to continue developing new courses for Walkabout Mini Golf, with a reduced release schedule for the upcoming year. The studio is also exploring additional activities within the game, such as chess and slingshots, while prioritizing new course development. As the VR market continues to evolve, Mighty Coconut's strategic adjustments may serve as a case study for other developers navigating similar challenges. The studio's ability to adapt and innovate will be crucial in maintaining its position in the competitive VR landscape.
