The future of external development in the games industry is a fascinating topic, one that sparks a lot of debate and speculation. As an expert in this field, I find it intriguing to explore the various possibilities and their potential impact. Let's dive into this exciting discussion.
The Evolution of External Development
The industry is evolving, and with it, the role of external development. Traditionally, external teams were seen as a way to bolster internal capacity, especially during peak production periods. However, the industry is now recognizing the value of these partnerships beyond mere capacity support.
Claude Bordeleau, a prominent figure in the industry, highlights this shift. He believes external development is moving towards capability support, where the best partners own features, pipelines, and even significant portions of a game. This transition is a game-changer, as it positions external teams as integral parts of the development process, not just supplementary.
Polarization and Specialization
Bordeleau also predicts a polarization in the market. Large, tier-one providers will thrive due to their scale, security, and global reach. On the other hand, highly specialized boutique studios will continue to succeed by offering unique expertise and exceptional craftsmanship. This polarization creates an interesting dynamic, with the middle ground potentially becoming less viable.
The Role of Geography
Geography is an intriguing aspect of this discussion. While it has traditionally played a role in development, Bordeleau suggests that trust and understanding will become more critical. The strongest global teams will combine Western leadership and client intimacy with the technical prowess of Asian and other major development regions. This fusion of creative and operational strengths is an exciting prospect.
AI and Human Connection
AI is an inevitable part of the future, but its impact on external development is a complex topic. Bordeleau believes AI will automate tasks but won't diminish the need for human creativity and vision. In fact, he suggests that human connection will become an even greater differentiator. The most successful studios will be those that use AI to amplify their capabilities, creating experiences that are emotionally resonant and truly memorable.
A Movie-Style Production Process?
The question of whether the industry will adopt a movie-style production process is an intriguing one. Stuart Muckley suggests that the drive for cost efficacy and risk management might lead to this model. Each game could become its own legal entity, with investment and risk allocated accordingly. This approach could lead to more outsourcing and a greater reliance on external development.
Co-Development and Specialization
Marco Bettencourt and Myke Parrott emphasize the importance of co-development and specialization. Bettencourt believes the future is about trusted partners working as an extension of the internal team. Parrott agrees, highlighting the shift towards bringing in deep expertise when needed, whether for technical challenges or innovation.
Sustainable and Efficient Development
Chris Wood offers an interesting perspective, suggesting that the future lies in networks of specialized studios coming together. This collaborative approach could lead to sustainable and efficient development, with each studio contributing its unique expertise.
Conclusion
The future of external development is bright, and it's an exciting time for the industry. As we move forward, we'll see a more strategic and integrated approach to external partnerships, with a focus on capability support, specialization, and human connection. The industry is evolving, and external development is at the forefront of this evolution. Personally, I believe the next few years will be a period of great innovation and collaboration, shaping the future of gaming as we know it.
