What's Happening?
Robert Bowling, a former strategist for the Call of Duty franchise, has announced the launch of a new game development studio named //18.bravo. Bowling, known for his role at Infinity Ward and as the community face of the Modern Warfare series, is taking
a novel approach with his new venture. The studio aims to tie leadership compensation to employee success and includes a royalty program for employees and external talents such as voice actors. Notably, Bowling has committed to making the game open source if the studio fails, allowing the community to continue playing and developing the game. This approach is part of a broader mission to combat the trend of games becoming unplayable when companies shut down or cease support.
Why It's Important?
Bowling's initiative is significant in the gaming industry, which often sees games become obsolete when companies discontinue support. By committing to open source the game if the studio fails, Bowling is addressing a growing concern among gamers about the longevity and accessibility of online games. This move could set a precedent for other developers, encouraging a shift towards more sustainable and community-driven game development models. It also highlights a potential change in how game studios operate, focusing on employee and community involvement rather than solely on profit margins.
What's Next?
The success of Bowling's studio and its open-source model could influence other game developers to adopt similar practices. If successful, it may lead to a broader industry shift towards more transparent and community-focused game development. Stakeholders, including other game studios and industry leaders, will likely watch closely to see if this model proves viable and sustainable. The gaming community's response will also be crucial, as their support could drive further adoption of such practices.
