Assemble with Care
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Ustwo Games was pushed out of mobile by the rise of free-to-play – but the mobile way of doing things is coming to PC
Ustwo Games is shifting its strategy from mobile-first to PC-first, citing the dominance of the free-to-play model on mobile and a desire to focus on premium, narrative-driven experiences. CEO Maria Sayans and CCO Daniel Gray explained that while this transition is challenging, the studio aims to retain its core identity while adapting its development philosophy for a new audience. Other mobile-focused companies like Outfit7 are also exploring PC releases, indicating a broader trend of diversification within the industry.
A gaming CEO just said 'We’ve been a little bit too romantic about the idea that we should have employees and give people long-term job security', and doesn't that sum up everything wrong with the industry right now
Ustwo Games CEO Maria Sayans has sparked debate by suggesting the company has been "too romantic" about providing long-term job security to employees, citing high development costs in London. The studio is shifting its strategy towards PC and console releases, potentially relying more on contractors to manage growth and reduce budgets, a move Sayans admits she dislikes.
Ustwo Games to consider hiring more contractors to reduce development costs
Ustwo Games CEO Maria Sayans stated the studio plans to reduce development costs by increasing reliance on contractors rather than full-time employees. This shift is part of a move towards a PC-first strategy, aiming for smaller budgets compared to previous titles like Monument Valley 3. Sayans also suggested launching games at higher prices with later discounts to ensure studio sustainability.
'We've been a little bit too romantic:' Ustwo CEO says lowering development costs is now paramount
Ustwo Games CEO Maria Sayans states that lowering development costs and increasing the use of contractors are crucial for the studio's future as a PC-first developer. The company is pivoting away from mobile due to declining profitability and is focusing on creating meaningful single-player experiences for PC and consoles, while re-evaluating its budget and pricing strategies.
