In the ever-evolving world of game development, the question of whether external studios should venture into creating their own games is a fascinating one. It's a topic that sparks debate and offers a glimpse into the diverse strategies and philosophies of these studios. Personally, I find it intriguing to explore the reasons behind their choices and the potential implications for the industry as a whole.
The Case for Internal Projects
Let's delve into the arguments presented by those who advocate for external studios to develop their own games. One of the key benefits highlighted is the creative outlet it provides. Bryan Freitas, Tech Director at Redcatpig, emphasizes the importance of working on projects that developers believe in, stating that it leads to more satisfying and motivated work. This sentiment is echoed by João Toste, Art Director at the same studio, who believes that creating their own games offers valuable experience and a deeper understanding of the entire production cycle.
Mike Sherak, Managing Director of the Art Division at Virtuos, takes it a step further, arguing that internal projects give studios the opportunity to experiment with new styles and techniques, ultimately enhancing their skills and providing firsthand experience of the complexities of game development. Terry Goodwin from Lab42 agrees, stating that internal projects ensure that the team's expertise remains sharp, especially when it comes to managing a product's entire development lifecycle.
Balancing Act and Financial Considerations
However, the discussion doesn't stop there. Rob Hewson of Huey Games brings up an interesting point about risk management. While acknowledging the benefits of creating original games, he emphasizes the need to prioritize external development work to ensure a steady stream of income. This is a pragmatic approach, especially for studios that want to minimize financial risks.
Lindsay Gupton from Pipeworks offers a balanced perspective, recognizing both the advantages and disadvantages of external and internal projects. He suggests that the key lies in finding a harmonious coexistence between the two, allowing each to strengthen the other.
Philosophical Perspectives
As we delve deeper, we encounter more nuanced viewpoints. James Oates, Vice President of Sumo Digital, introduces the concept of ownership and trust. He believes that genuine autonomy and accountability arise when teams are trusted to make decisions, regardless of whether the project is internal or external. Oates also highlights the value of creative palate cleansers, especially on long-running projects, as they can spark new ideas and fresh perspectives.
The Cautious Approach
On the other hand, there are those who advocate for a more cautious approach. Stuart Muckley, CEO of Code Wizards Group, emphasizes the importance of focusing on what a studio does best. For them, it's backend engineering and data pipelines, and they stick to that mission. Joe Harford from Airship warns of the potential pitfalls of owning intellectual property, stating that it can become a trap, diverting resources and attention away from the core service that pays the bills.
Chris Wood of Tanglewood Games and Myke Parrott from CodeDev share similar sentiments. They believe that once a studio starts its own project, time and loyalties become divided, potentially impacting the quality of service provided to clients. Wood argues that by solely focusing on providing an exceptional service, studios can maintain a simple and appreciated approach for their clients.
Conclusion: A Matter of Perspective
In conclusion, the decision for external studios to create their own games is a complex one, influenced by various factors such as creative fulfillment, risk management, and the desire to provide the best service to clients. It's a delicate balancing act, and each studio must navigate this path based on its unique goals and philosophy. As an observer, I find it fascinating to witness the diverse strategies employed by these studios, each bringing its own flavor to the vibrant world of game development.
