Game Industry
Ongoing coverage on Game Industry.
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Great, dynamic pricing is seemingly coming to game sales – just when you thought you couldn’t hate big tech any more: Here’s what we know about consumerism’s new favorite toy
The article discusses the potential introduction of dynamic pricing in video game sales, drawing parallels to controversies in ticket sales and ride-sharing services. It highlights user complaints about varying prices on the PlayStation Store and questions the transparency of such practices, arguing for predictable pricing structures.
Games Inbox: Will Project Helix be a successful comeback for Xbox?
Readers discuss the potential success of Microsoft's 'Project Helix' for Xbox, with concerns about its high cost and whether it's too late for a comeback. Other topics include the aging audience for single-player games, Nintendo's Direct presentations, and the challenges of reviving the Prince of Persia franchise.
Concord and Highguard show that even Fortnite would struggle with its 1.0 version today
The article discusses how games like Concord and Highguard, despite their struggles, highlight the challenges even a massive title like Fortnite would face with its initial 1.0 version today. It contrasts Fortnite's evolution from Save The World to its Battle Royale success with the comebacks of Rainbow Six Siege and the continued support for Quake Champions, questioning whether modern publishers would show similar restraint.
Australian mobile studio Halfbrick to cut 41 members of staff
Australian mobile game developer Halfbrick Studios is laying off 41 employees due to challenging industry conditions and strategic priorities. The company, known for hits like Fruit Ninja and Jetpack Joyride, is seeking new opportunities for the affected staff.
Issues and Activism
Veteran developer Greg Costikyan has criticized the GDC 2026 "Festival of Gaming" rebrand, calling it out amidst a significant industry crisis. The article also touches on issues with The Marathon's battle pass, suggesting it is poorly implemented.
The craft of voice acting with Jennifer Hale
Veteran voice actress Jennifer Hale discusses her career, collaboration with game developers, and her upcoming sessions at the 2026 GDC Festival of Gaming. Hale also shares insights on the craft of voice acting and its importance in game development.
Maverick Games reveals first screenshot of new AAA driving game
Maverick Games has revealed the first screenshot of its upcoming AAA driving game. In separate news, mobile developer Halfbrick has laid off 41 employees, citing a challenging period for the games industry and organizational priorities.
Highguard's failure is emblematic of something that has tormented videogame investors for years now: past live service hits do not equal future live service hits
The failure of live service games like Highguard highlights a persistent problem for investors: past success does not guarantee future hits. Even experienced developers like those from Apex Legends and major companies like Riot Games and Valve have struggled to replicate live service success, leading to cancellations and layoffs across the industry.
Killing Floor studio Tripwire Interactive lays off 23 people because of 'business realities' and all the other…
Tripwire Interactive, the developer behind Killing Floor and Rising Storm, has laid off 23 employees, citing 'business realities' and the evolving video game industry. The studio described the decision as difficult, impacting various departments. This follows a trend of significant layoffs across the game industry since 2022.
Killing Floor Studio Tripwire Interactive Hit by Layoffs
Tripwire Interactive, the developer behind the Killing Floor series, has laid off 23 employees, citing industry changes and business realities. The studio stated it is committed to supporting those affected and continuing with its current projects, including Killing Floor 3, despite the game's low player count on Steam.
Halfbrick cuts 41 jobs as it navigates "challenging period for the games industry"
Australian mobile studio Halfbrick has laid off 41 employees, citing a challenging period for the games industry and strategic priorities. The developer of Fruit Ninja and Jetpack Joyride is navigating these changes with care for affected staff. Their latest title, Bluey's Quest for the Gold Pen, was released on mobile in late 2025/early 2026 with console and PC versions planned for May 2026.
Fruit Ninja studio Halfbrick hit with layoffs: 'we are navigating a challenging period for the games industry'
Australian studio Halfbrick Studios, known for Fruit Ninja and Jetpack Joyride, has announced layoffs affecting 41 staff in Australia and concluding international engagements. The company cited a challenging period for the games industry and organizational priorities as reasons for the decision. The PC release of Bluey's Quest for the Gold Pen remains unaffected.
How Fortnite Hurt The Gaming Industry - The Game Fanatics
Fortnite's transition to a battle royale model and its subsequent massive success has significantly impacted the gaming industry, leading many companies to chase its formula. This pursuit, coupled with overestimations of profits post-COVID, has contributed to industry layoffs and studio closures, though the author anticipates a resurgence of AA games with unique experiences.
"He truly cared about games, about the industry, and about the people making them" – The industry on Phil Spencer
Industry leaders reflect on Phil Spencer's retirement from Xbox after a 25-year career, highlighting his passion for games, player-first approach, and impact on the industry. Figures from Take-Two, Ubisoft, and others shared memories of his leadership, emphasizing his genuine interest in game development and his role in shaping the Xbox and PC ecosystems.
