In the ever-evolving landscape of the gaming industry, where trends come and go faster than a flash sale, one voice is standing out with a bold declaration: Robert Bowling, a former creative strategist at Infinity Ward, is ready to revolutionize the gaming scene with his new studio, //18.bravo. With a mission to challenge the status quo, Bowling is pushing back against the destructive trends that have plagued the industry, particularly the live service model. But what makes this venture truly intriguing is not just its anti-live service stance, but also its innovative approach to game development, player engagement, and even studio management.
A Radical Departure from the Norm
Bowling's statement, "It’s time for a radically different approach, and we’re doing it or will die trying," sets the tone for a studio that is not afraid to break free from the constraints of the industry's current trajectory. The gaming landscape has been dominated by live service games, where players are expected to keep investing time and money to stay engaged. Bowling, however, envisions a different path. He believes that the industry has neglected its players and abused its staff in the pursuit of ever-increasing profits, and he's determined to change that.
The Anti-Live Service Stand
What makes //18.bravo particularly fascinating is its commitment to creating a game that can be enjoyed even if the studio behind it collapses. Bowling's statement, "While we will support dedicated servers during our peak / launch periods, the foundation of the game is focused around supporting 'forever play,'" is a direct challenge to the live service model. By optimizing P2P architecture, the studio aims to ensure that players can continue to play together even if the company moves on, effectively making the game a 'forever play' experience.
A Player-Centric Approach
What many people don't realize is that Bowling's studio is not just about creating a game that lasts; it's also about rewarding those who work on it. Leadership compensation will be tied to employee success, there will be a royalty program for staff, and the studio will also offer profit-sharing opportunities for external talent such as voice actors, mocap performers, and contractors. This approach not only ensures that the studio's success is shared among its team but also fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation.
Open-Sourcing for Sustainability
A detail that I find especially interesting is Bowling's commitment to open-sourcing the studio's assets and code if the studio ever shuts down. By doing so, he ensures that the game won't evaporate out of existence if the studio has to close its doors. This move is not just a strategic decision but also a testament to the studio's belief in the power of community and collaboration. It raises a deeper question: What if the gaming industry embraced open-sourcing as a standard practice, fostering a more sustainable and inclusive environment?
A Time of Turmoil in the Industry
Bowling's comments and mission statement come during a tumultuous time in the gaming industry. Bungie's recent layoffs and Xbox's planned cuts are just the tip of the iceberg. Microsoft's consideration of cancelling Marvel's Blade and shutting down studios like Undead Labs further highlights the challenges facing the industry. In this context, Bowling's venture stands out as a beacon of hope, challenging the industry to rethink its priorities and embrace a more player-centric, sustainable, and collaborative approach.
The Future of Gaming
In my opinion, Bowling's studio represents a turning point in the gaming industry. It challenges the status quo, pushes back against destructive trends, and offers a compelling alternative to the live service model. By focusing on 'forever play,' rewarding its team, and embracing open-sourcing, Bowling is not just creating a game; he's crafting a new paradigm for the industry. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, Bowling's studio may just be the catalyst for a much-needed transformation, one that puts players and creators at the heart of the experience.
What this really suggests is that the gaming industry is ripe for disruption. By taking a step back and thinking about it, it's clear that the industry needs a fresh perspective, one that challenges the current norms and embraces innovation. Bowling's studio is not just a game; it's a statement, a call to action for the industry to rethink its priorities and create a more sustainable, player-centric future. As the industry continues to grapple with its challenges, Bowling's venture may just be the spark that ignites the change the industry desperately needs.
