Supergiant Games may not be going the publisher route this time around, despite Bastion’s sales of 1.7 million under the Warner Brothers label. Despite Bastion’s success, however, going solo might still be a risky move for Supergiant, especially as its game features a female protagonist, which may affect sales if current numbers and game industry history are any guide.
“We’re showing it to the world for the first time,” according to lead designer Amir Rao. “We don’t have deals with anyone. This is the first time anybody has seen this game. It’s really way too early for us to say if we’ll have a publisher or what platforms it will be on.”
“We put characters in our games that are representative of the worlds they’re in. We don’t think of her as a female character. She’s just our character.”
The Challenges of Going Independent
Supergiant Games’ decision to potentially go independent with their new game, Transistor, is a bold move in an industry where publisher support can significantly impact a game’s success. While Bastion’s impressive sales under Warner Brothers’ label provided a solid foundation, the landscape of the gaming industry is ever-evolving. Independent game development comes with its own set of challenges, including funding, marketing, and distribution.
Without the backing of a major publisher, Supergiant Games will need to rely heavily on their reputation and the quality of their previous titles to attract attention and sales. The indie game market is highly competitive, with numerous developers vying for players’ attention. However, the rise of digital distribution platforms like Steam, GOG, and the Epic Games Store has made it easier for indie developers to reach a global audience without the need for a traditional publisher.
Representation and Industry Trends
One of the notable aspects of Transistor is its female protagonist. Historically, games with female leads have faced challenges in the market, often due to outdated perceptions and biases within the gaming community. However, recent trends indicate a shift towards more diverse and inclusive representation in video games. Titles like Horizon Zero Dawn, Tomb Raider, and The Last of Us Part II have proven that games with strong female protagonists can achieve both critical and commercial success.
Supergiant Games’ approach to character design, as stated by Amir Rao, emphasizes creating characters that fit naturally within the game’s world. This philosophy aligns with the growing demand for authentic and well-developed characters, regardless of gender. By focusing on storytelling and character development, Supergiant Games aims to create a compelling experience that resonates with players.
Additionally, the success of Bastion has already established a loyal fanbase for Supergiant Games. This existing community can play a crucial role in supporting the studio’s independent endeavors. Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and Patreon have also become viable options for indie developers to secure funding directly from their fans, bypassing the need for traditional publishers.
In conclusion, while Supergiant Games’ decision to potentially go independent with Transistor carries inherent risks, it also presents an opportunity for creative freedom and innovation. The gaming industry is gradually embracing diversity and inclusivity, and Supergiant Games’ commitment to authentic character representation aligns with these positive trends. As the studio navigates the challenges of independent development, their reputation, fanbase, and dedication to quality storytelling will be key factors in determining the success of Transistor.
Source Joystiq
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