In a recent interview with members of indie collective/developer New Blood, the studio boss Dave Oshry discussed the reasons behind their success amidst the challenges faced by the gaming industry. Oshry points out that unlike many companies in the industry, they are not bound by the expectations of shareholders or investors. They have the freedom to create games according to their own vision, which Oshry jokingly summarizes as “we hate money.”
While the statement may be tongue-in-cheek, it highlights the studio’s commitment to making games that they truly believe in, rather than simply chasing profits. Oshry specifically mentions that if they were solely focused on making money, they would have created a game like Dusk, a popular survival horror crafting game. Instead, they prioritize making games that they are passionate about, and it turns out that there is an audience that wants the same types of games they are creating.
Oshry contrasts this approach with the growth-focused mindset commonly found in larger game studios. He believes that the incessant pursuit of growth can be detrimental to the quality of games and the enjoyment of the development process. New Blood maintains a small team of around 30 people, and Oshry emphasizes the importance of personal care and a supportive working environment. He believes that maintaining a close-knit team allows for better communication and ensures that everyone’s voice is heard.
According to Oshry, the obsession with growth can be a trap. He advises aspiring game developers to think twice before joining a large game studio, where they may become just another employee in a vast hierarchy. He believes that the magic of creating and enjoying games can be lost when working in such an environment.
Although New Blood’s success may not fit the traditional mold of a game development company, Oshry asserts that there are other companies out there that are thriving despite the challenges faced by the industry. He believes that the focus on doom and gloom in the news often obscures the success stories.
The interview also features Dave “Garumin” Bonin, a recently hired developer at New Blood. Bonin shares his perspective on the industry, noting a prevalent culture of high turnover and profit-driven policies. He himself had stayed away from professional game development for over a decade before finding an opportunity at New Blood. He highlights the importance of finding a company that values its employees and fosters a supportive environment.
New Blood’s future looks promising, with games like Ultrakill and Gloomwood continuing to gain traction in early access. Additionally, projects like Fallen Aces and a Fallout-style throwback CRPG are in the works, showcasing the variety and creativity within the studio.
Overall, the success of New Blood and their unique approach to game development raises interesting implications for the industry as a whole. The studio’s ability to create games based on their own vision, rather than market trends, challenges the notion that growth should always be the ultimate goal. It suggests that prioritizing the quality of games and the well-being of developers can lead to success and the creation of compelling and enjoyable experiences for players.
The interview also serves as a reminder that amidst the challenges faced by the gaming industry, there are companies that are thriving and creating innovative games. It is crucial to focus not only on the negatives but also on the positive stories that are often overshadowed.
In conclusion, New Blood’s example highlights the potential future trends in the gaming industry. As more developers and studios prioritize creative vision and the well-being of their teams, we may see a shift away from the growth-at-all-costs mentality. This could lead to a greater emphasis on quality games and more fulfilling experiences for both developers and players.