Brandon Sheffield
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The people of video games on what gives them cause for hope
Industry professionals share their reasons for optimism despite current challenges, highlighting the resilience of game developers, the innovation within the indie scene, the growing cultural impact of games, and the enduring passion of players. They emphasize community support, creative freedom, and the potential for new ideas to emerge from difficult times, suggesting a bright future for the medium.
Indie Game Bundle Aiding Laid-Off Developers Is Nearing $200,000 Raised
A Game Industry Hardship Fund bundle on Itch.io, created by Necrosoft Games director Brandon Sheffield and the United Videogame Workers, has raised nearly $200,000 to assist laid-off developers with living expenses. The bundle features 127 games, including titles like Skatebird and A Short Hike, with all proceeds going to affected individuals in the US and Canada. This initiative comes in response to widespread layoffs within the industry, with funds being distributed by the union.
"Steam’s required AI disclosure is the right move": Devs say gen AI should be called out in games and…
Valve's new policy requiring developers to disclose the use of generative AI in games on Steam has sparked debate, with some, like Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney, calling it irresponsible. However, many developers interviewed believe transparency is crucial, arguing that gamers have a right to know how their games are made and what they are supporting. There is a sentiment that consumers are pushing back against AI-generated content, and platforms like Steam are responding to this demand.
On the ground at GDC: how are devs responding to industry calamity?
Developers attending the Game Developer Conference expressed widespread uncertainty and anxiety due to industry layoffs and economic instability. Many believe the traditional model is broken, with a focus shifting towards leaner operations, niche audiences, and the potential impact of AI and unionization on the future of game development.
What place will AI have in game development?
Industry leaders offer nuanced perspectives on the role of AI in game development, moving beyond polarized views. While some express concerns about generative art and job displacement, many see potential for AI in productivity tasks, coding assistance, and empowering human creativity. The consensus suggests AI will be integrated as a tool to augment, not replace, human developers, with a focus on its potential to democratize development and enable new forms of player agency.
"Espionage And Corporate Sabotage" Blamed For MindsEye Launch, As Dev Announces Layoffs
Build A Rocket Boy co-CEO Mark Gerhard has blamed corporate espionage and sabotage for the poor reception of the game MindsEye, while also announcing studio layoffs. Gerhard stated that an investigation has uncovered overwhelming evidence of criminal activity, with details to be revealed as the matter moves toward prosecution. The game received a low score of 3/10 from GameSpot and experienced a troubled launch, with developers reportedly working overtime to fix numerous issues.
Bloodborne remake and much more rejected by FromSoftware according to indie dev
Despite owning the intellectual property, Sony has reportedly been unable to secure a Bloodborne remake or PC port because FromSoftware, specifically director Hidetaka Miyazaki, has not approved such projects. Indie developer Brandon Sheffield also claimed multiple studios have pitched Bloodborne-related games, but FromSoftware's decision is final. Bluepoint Games, which developed the Shadow of the Colossus remake, also had its pitches for a Bloodborne remake and a Ghost of Tsushima spin-off rejected.
