Gears of War driving force and former Epic Games Design Director Cliff Bleszinski has revealed he is actively considering starting up a new venture. Bleszinski left Epic in October after setting the wheels in motion for the storied developer’s new IP, Fortnite. However, the biggest consideration in setting up a new studio, beside whether to go indie or AAA, is the challenge of building a competitive team.
“I want to be creative in some sort of fashion,” he stated in a VentureBeat interview. “I’m a pretty smart designer who has a good sense and a good track record, but unless I’m surrounding myself with my Avengers, I’m useless.”
Challenges of Building a New Studio
Building a new studio from the ground up is no small feat. Bleszinski acknowledges that assembling a talented and cohesive team is crucial. “The thing is, I would want to get back to the triple-A space eventually, but the last thing I would want to do – and no offence meant to Curt Schilling [38 Studios] and John Romero [Ion Storm] – is to do what those guys did: ‘Let’s throw 300 bodies at it! Sure, we’ll just make it work!'”
This statement highlights the importance of not just the quantity but the quality of the team members. A smaller, more skilled team can often achieve more than a larger, less coordinated one. Bleszinski’s reference to his “Avengers” underscores his desire to work with top-tier talent who can bring unique skills and perspectives to the table.
Indie vs. AAA: The Big Decision
One of the significant decisions Bleszinski faces is whether to go indie or aim for the AAA space. Each path has its own set of challenges and rewards. The indie route offers more creative freedom and the ability to take risks without the pressure of massive budgets and corporate oversight. However, it also comes with financial constraints and the challenge of standing out in a crowded market.
On the other hand, AAA development provides access to substantial resources, marketing power, and the ability to create large-scale, high-quality games. But it also involves navigating corporate politics, meeting high expectations, and often compromising on creative vision to meet market demands.
Bleszinski’s experience with Epic Games and his role in creating blockbuster titles like Gears of War give him a unique perspective on both sides of the industry. His desire to eventually return to the AAA space suggests a preference for the resources and impact that come with larger projects, but his cautious approach indicates he is well aware of the pitfalls.
Future Prospects and Industry Impact
Bleszinski’s potential return to game development is exciting news for the industry. His track record speaks for itself, and his innovative approach to game design has left a lasting impact. Whether he chooses to go indie or AAA, his new venture will undoubtedly be closely watched by fans and industry professionals alike.
Moreover, Bleszinski’s emphasis on building a strong team could set a new standard for how game studios are formed. By prioritizing talent and cohesion over sheer numbers, he may inspire other developers to rethink their approach to team building.
In conclusion, Cliff Bleszinski’s contemplation of starting a new studio is a significant development in the gaming world. His experience, vision, and understanding of the industry’s complexities position him well for success. As he navigates the challenges of building a competitive team and deciding between indie and AAA development, the gaming community eagerly awaits his next move.
Source VentureBeat
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