What's Happening?
Maria Sayans, CEO of Ustwo Games, the developer behind the popular Monument Valley series, has announced a strategic shift in the company's employment model. In an interview at the London Games Fest, Sayans revealed that the studio will increasingly rely
on contractors rather than full-time employees to reduce development costs. This decision comes after Netflix removed Monument Valley games from its service and as deals with major companies have become less frequent. Ustwo Games aims to focus on creating meaningful single-player experiences for PC and consoles, a plan that has already seen the studio port several games to platforms like Steam and Switch without publisher support. Sayans noted that the high development budgets, ranging from £7 million to £10 million, are unsustainable for the studio's future projects, especially those outside the established Monument Valley series.
Why It's Important?
The shift towards a contractor-based workforce reflects broader industry trends where game developers are seeking to cut costs amid financial pressures. This move could impact job security and employment stability within the gaming industry, as more companies might adopt similar strategies to remain competitive. For Ustwo Games, this change is crucial to maintaining financial viability and continuing to produce high-quality games. However, it also highlights the challenges faced by developers in balancing cost management with the desire to provide stable employment. The decision could influence other studios to reconsider their employment models, potentially leading to a more widespread reliance on contractors in the gaming industry.
What's Next?
Ustwo Games will likely continue to evaluate its cost structures and employment strategies as it develops new projects. The studio's focus on creating single-player experiences for PC and consoles suggests a potential expansion into new gaming markets, which may require further adjustments in their operational approach. Stakeholders, including employees and industry observers, will be watching closely to see how these changes affect the studio's output and financial health. The broader gaming industry may also monitor Ustwo's approach as a case study for managing development costs in a competitive market.
