Games in the New Reality: 8 Opinions from Pioner and Atom RPG Authors

Contents:

• Rais Tuykin: The Path of a Game Writer
• Alexey Ilyukhin — Creative Director at The Epic
• Alexander Kompanets: Next-Generation Game Designer
• Oleg Kolyada: Behind the Scenes of SpellMaster: The Saga Development
• Alexey Belyakov — CEO
• Alexey Krylyshkin: The Path of an Eclipse Indie Developer
• Artem Kopyl: Inspiring Development Leader Will&Reason

Rais Tuykin: The Path of a Game Writer

In a rapidly changing reality, the Russian gaming industry faces unique challenges. Recognizing this, it is necessary to adapt and take proactive measures to avoid remaining inactive. Current trends and changes in the global gaming environment require us to be flexible and ready for innovation. It is important not only to respond to changes, but also to anticipate them in order to confidently move forward and develop domestic projects.

The situation in the video game market has undergone significant changes. The influence of political and economic factors on the global perception of Russia creates new challenges for game developers. However, as history shows, change often opens new horizons and opportunities for creativity and innovation in the gaming industry. Developers can adapt to new conditions, using them to create unique gaming products that will appeal to both domestic and international users. It's important to recognize that every challenge can become a launchpad for new ideas and projects. Humanity has repeatedly faced crises, such as wars, epidemics, and economic downturns. A prime example is the COVID-19 pandemic, which has radically changed our way of life. We have managed to adapt to these new conditions. Now it's time to rediscover how to find solutions in challenging situations. Adaptation and resilience are becoming key skills for overcoming modern challenges.

Survival in the conditions Competition is a natural process. In the wild, only the strongest and most adaptable species survive. In the context of the gaming industry, this means that developers must constantly improve their skills and knowledge to remain in demand in the market. Success in this field requires not only technical skills, but also the ability to innovate, understand trends, and understand user needs. Regular training and adaptation to new technologies are becoming key factors for achieving success in game development and maintaining a competitive edge.

Competition in the video game industry is steadily increasing, and today it has reached a high level. Each project requires not only technical skills but also creative thinking. Developers must focus on both hard skills, such as programming and graphic design, and soft skills, including communication and teamwork, to ensure effective teamwork. Success in game development depends on the ability to adapt to change and use innovative approaches to create a unique gaming experience.

Let's consider games from the perspective of three main aspects: business, technology, and art. These elements are interconnected and form a unique space within the gaming industry.

From a business perspective, games represent a multi-billion dollar market that is rapidly growing thanks to new monetization and marketing models. Innovative approaches to game sales, such as subscription services and free-to-play models, have changed the way games interact with consumers and expanded their audience.

Technology plays a key role in the evolution of gaming. Modern game engines and graphics technologies enable the creation of stunning visuals and realistic physics. Virtual and augmented reality open new horizons for player immersion, creating unique gaming experiences.

Art in games goes beyond simple design. It is a combination of graphics, music, storylines, and characters that together create an emotional experience. Gaming projects are becoming increasingly complex and multilayered, allowing players not only to be entertained but also to immerse themselves in deep stories and worlds. Business, technology, and art are thus the primary factors shaping the modern gaming industry. Their harmonious interaction contributes not only to the development of the games themselves but also to the expansion of their audience and increased interest in this fascinating art form. Games as a Business. The business environment in the gaming industry is constantly evolving. A game's success directly depends on the team's ability to adapt to new conditions, including finding new partners and optimizing business processes. Only games that are prepared for change and can flexibly respond to market challenges have a chance of long-term survival and successful development. Adaptation to new technologies and audience preferences also plays a key role in ensuring competitiveness in the market. Despite challenges, new opportunities arise. Businesses constantly strive to increase profits, and even in difficult conditions, new partnerships and trading platforms can emerge. This highlights the importance of adaptation and flexibility as key factors for success.

Game Development as an IT Process. Video game development is a complex, multi-stage process that requires the use of various technologies. With limited access to foreign solutions, developers should focus on developing their own technologies and tools. Russia already has experience successfully creating domestic software, which can be used to implement ambitious projects in the gaming industry. Focusing on local development will not only increase competitiveness but also allow for the creation of unique products that meet the needs of the domestic market.

Sometimes it is important to go back to the roots, as was done in the 90s. At that time, game developers worked with limited technological capabilities, but this did not stop them from creating successful projects such as "Space Rangers" and "Stalker". These games became iconic due to their unique approach to gameplay and deep storyline. Returning to these roots can inspire modern developers to create original and memorable games that players will appreciate for their simplicity and innovation.

Games as Art. For many developers in the video game industry, game development is not only a source of income but also a platform for realizing creative ideas. In times of economic crisis, the likelihood of new indie games emerging, created with an emphasis on self-expression and originality, is increasing. These projects can become a true reflection of the developers' individuality and their vision of the world, which in turn will enrich gaming culture with fresh concepts and unique stories. Indie games are becoming increasingly popular, attracting the attention of not only players but also critics, confirming their significance as an art form.

Art finds a way to survive even in the most difficult times. Throughout history, there have always been people who created amazing works despite the circumstances. If you are truly passionate about game development, nothing can stop you. Your passion and creativity will be the driving force behind bringing your ideas to life. Creating games is not only a way of self-expression, but also an opportunity to inspire others.

Despite the current difficulties, the gaming industry has every chance of a successful future. The key factors are a willingness to change, a desire to learn, and continuous development. It is important to adapt to new trends and technologies to remain competitive. Success in this field depends on flexibility and perseverance, which will allow you to overcome any obstacles and achieve your goals.

Alexey Ilyukhin - Creative Director of The Epic

We are all ordinary people, and ordinary things can cause us both attraction and fear. It is important to realize that I do not have any special emotions about what is happening around me. Since childhood, I understood that peace and harmony are core values ​​​​that cannot be replaced by any ideologies. These principles shape our perception and relationships with the world around us, helping to find harmony in everyday life.

The current situation in various sectors of the economy requires careful analysis. The Russian market has been developing rapidly in the three decades since the collapse of the USSR. In recent years, we have witnessed the active growth of the entertainment ecosystem, including the development of high-quality international products and services. This trend highlights the growing interest in innovation and high standards in the industry, which, in turn, opens up new opportunities for businesses and consumers.

Nevertheless, it's important to note that the gap with the global market can be overcome within 5-10 years. For example, the Russian banking system already offers consumers a level of convenience comparable to leading global practices. However, the economy cannot develop in isolation, and we are beginning to understand the consequences of this phenomenon in various aspects. It's important to consider that integration with global markets can facilitate the further development and modernization of economic processes, which will ultimately lead to an improvement in the quality of life of the population and increased competitiveness of the country on the international stage.

Some believe that domestic brands can easily replace departed foreign companies. However, this assertion is populist. Departed brands formed entire ecosystems that helped meet local needs and interests. Their absence leads to significant negative consequences for the market and consumers. Domestic analogues are not always able to fully compensate for the loss, which can affect the quality of services and goods available to the population.

The cancellation of investments by major brands entails not only the closure of new plants but also the halting of marketing activities. This, in turn, terminates international advertising contracts for media holdings such as WPP, leading to the reduction of their agencies in the local market. Such changes negatively impact the country's economy, reducing the number of jobs and decreasing competition. As a result, brands lose the ability to effectively promote their products, and consumers face limited choice and higher prices.

Mass layoffs at large companies create a domino effect, affecting smaller contractors and leading to further losses in the economy. These processes not only worsen the financial condition of individual enterprises but also create reputational risks that negatively affect international relations. Under such pressure, it is important to carefully analyze the consequences and seek ways to minimize the impact on business and partnerships.

The game development industry in Russia has always had an international nature. This trend is observed not only in our country but also in other regions of the world. Russian developers are focused on the global market, but they currently face significant barriers that limit access to international opportunities. It's important to note that this difficulty impacts not only economic aspects but also the creative processes of game development. Many studios are considering relocating abroad to protect their intellectual property and continue development under more favorable conditions. Relocating abroad opens new business opportunities, including access to international markets, improved working conditions, and attracting talented specialists. This is a strategic move that allows companies to adapt to changes in the economic environment and remain competitive. Not all developers are given the opportunity to realize their projects. The indie sector dominates in Russia, and although numerous holdings and investors have emerged in recent years, the new economic environment poses additional challenges for developers. These factors affect the growth and development of games, inhibiting innovation and limiting financial resources.

In the current climate of uncertainty, cost optimization is becoming an important step for companies and individuals. Considering the possibility of a smooth transition to more stable countries with a comparable standard of living allows not only to minimize costs but also to ensure the continuity of development and business. This approach helps maintain the pace of work and mitigate the risks associated with economic fluctuations.

European countries should not be considered as an alternative, as their unpredictability can lead to additional risks for business. This can negatively affect the stability and predictability of operations.

Alexander Kompanets: A New Generation Game Designer

At first, I was going to create a gloomy text, but recent events inspire hope. The gaming industry in Russia is beginning to recover, and this is evoking positive emotions. The revival of interest in gaming projects and the active development of new technologies are opening new horizons for developers and players. It's important to note that these changes contribute to the creation of high-quality content and an improved user experience. More and more people are returning to gaming every day, indicating growing interest in this field.

Steam has begun actively paying out funds to Russian developers, which is a positive step for the industry. Despite the unstable exchange rate, which has raised concerns among indie developers, the market is still capable of supporting small studios. This creates hope for stability, even if revenue remains minimal. Therefore, support for the Steam platform plays a vital role in the development of the Russian gaming market and contributes to its resilience in the face of economic changes.

Rumors that Steam plans to introduce payment options for games using Russian bank cards are becoming increasingly relevant. This innovation will significantly simplify the process of purchasing games for users and will have a positive impact on developers targeting the Russian market. Simplicity and accessibility of payment are important factors for stimulating growth and expanding the audience, which may lead to increased sales and popularity of games among Russian gamers. The introduction of this feature will open up new opportunities for both players and developers, contributing to the growth of the Russian gaming market.

Our platformer, Steelborn, was originally scheduled for release in mid-May. However, we've decided to delay the release date, which gives us the opportunity to improve the gameplay and add new content. This will improve the overall quality of the game and provide players with a more engaging and rich experience.

We actively monitor changes in the gaming industry and globally, particularly in the CIS countries. Following recent events, there was a period of apathy in the game development community. However, we are now seeing many developers returning to their projects, indicating a renewed interest in gaming and the development of new ideas. This creates new opportunities for growth and innovation in the sector, which is a positive sign for the entire industry.

Game development is not just a profession, but a true calling. Many developers continue to create games despite the challenges they face. This is inspiring and highlights the power of creativity in the industry. The passion for creating unique game worlds and captivating stories makes game development not just a job, but a passion that brings joy to both developers and players.

Oleg Kolyada: Behind the Scenes of SpellMaster: The Saga Development

The development of SpellMaster: The Saga was a true challenge for the team. Throughout the development process, numerous obstacles arose, creating the feeling that someone was deliberately trying to derail the project. Despite the difficulties, the team was determined to bring the game to release, overcoming all obstacles and improving every aspect of the gameplay. SpellMaster: The Saga promises to be a unique experience for players, combining a gripping storyline and innovative gameplay.

One of the first significant challenges was the termination of funding from our previously partnered publisher. As a result, the team of six was reduced to three, and two of them began working on the project in their free time, dedicating just one to two hours a day. While I handled all aspects of development, including story writing, game design, programming, and 3D art, my colleagues focused on 2D art and level design. This situation significantly complicated the development process, but also gave each of us the opportunity to develop our skills and show creativity in solving emerging problems.

Funding from the publisher was not received, and I continued to use my savings accumulated during the development of Life is Feudal: Forest Village. To reduce costs, I decided to reduce the scope of the game from the original six chapters, representing 30+ hours of gameplay, to two or three chapters. This change allowed me to optimize resources and focus on creating high-quality content.

Under financial constraints that existed until December 2021, the decision was made to release the game in February 2022. However, the release did not go as smoothly as planned. Due to a lack of time for thorough testing, the game was released with bugs, which negatively impacted the perception of our transition to full access with unfinished content. We recognize the importance of a high-quality product and are working to fix issues to improve the player experience and ensure high game standards.

The previous publisher helped me develop a roadmap and plans for the further development of the project, with an emphasis on expanding the team after achieving financial stability. This made it possible to delegate programming tasks, which will allow me to focus on game design and significantly improve the quality of the game.

After the introduction of sanctions, payments to Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus were suspended. The remaining funds barely covered the costs before the game's release, and the denial of payments was a significant blow to me. I was unable to repay my investors, which was a huge disappointment.

After that, I began looking for ways to survive. Development continued, but all plans had to be revised. Getting a loan became impossible, as I was in debt and didn't want to take out loans without a guarantee of future income. I focused on finding alternative solutions that would allow me to continue working and find new sources of income.

The team that had assisted me agreed to continue working with me without payment until the funds arrived. I've also started selling off my personal belongings, including board games, monitors, and a PlayStation console with games, to raise funds.

Meanwhile, the new publisher was trying to register a legal entity and open a bank account in another country, but this process dragged on for three or four months. As a result, I began to think about pausing development and looking for a new job.

On April 20th, I received a notification from Steam stating that developers from Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine were required to open bank accounts with non-sanctioned institutions. This requirement had to be met by April 24th to ensure payment, but it turned out to be impossible to meet the deadline.

The new publisher is in the process of opening an account with another Russian bank. If this bank is not subject to sanctions, I will be able to receive my funds at the end of May. Otherwise, I will have to pause development and look for an office job.

Development of the SpellMaster project continues despite the difficulties that have arisen. I am determined and full of energy to complete the game. Encouraging news recently arrived that revenue is expected to arrive at the end of July, which provides additional motivation for further efforts.

Alexey Belyakov — CEO

The video game industry is a unique blend of art and business. In a rapidly changing market, the ability to adapt to new realities is essential. Game developers and companies that fail to respond to changes risk being overshadowed by more flexible competitors. Therefore, it is important not only to be creative but also to actively monitor trends in order to successfully develop your projects and remain in demand.

The first step to success is risk assessment. I began by analyzing current banking services and financial institutions, taking into account economic sanctions and the specifics of the international market. I discussed this experience in professional chats, and many colleagues began actively seeking new opportunities for business development. Risk assessment helps not only minimize losses but also identify new opportunities, which is especially important in an unstable economic environment.

Despite current challenges, many countries remain attractive to startups. Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan offer favorable conditions in their technology parks, facilitating the development of innovative projects. Turkey, Armenia, and Georgia are becoming increasingly popular destinations for IT specialists, thanks to their favorable business climate and accessible infrastructure. IT Park Uzbekistan recently introduced a special visa for specialists, significantly simplifying the relocation process and attracting new talent to the tech sector.

Amid all the recent changes, support for the IT sector in Russia seems less attractive. However, for many specialists, new prospects and opportunities for development in the international environment are opening up. Considering global trends, it is worth noting that working for foreign companies and projects provides unique opportunities for professional growth and mastering new technologies. It's important to adapt to new conditions and actively seek ways to realize your potential beyond your home market. Establishing a headquarters abroad has become possible and allows you to continue operating in your home market. However, it's important to consider that disconnecting from international payment systems can significantly complicate business operations. Interactions with foreign services and partners are becoming a priority, and their resolution requires a careful approach. Establishing reliable communication channels and financial transactions with international counterparties plays a key role in ensuring business stability and growth. A return to harsh conditions similar to the Iron Curtain raises many questions. Platforms such as Steam have already begun requiring a correspondent bank for payouts. If sanctions affect all Russian banks, this could have serious consequences for the gaming industry. Increasing financial restrictions will hinder developers' access to international markets and resources, negatively impacting their ability to create and distribute content. It's important to consider that such measures could limit not only large companies but also independent developers, ultimately leading to a decrease in the diversity and quality of gaming products on the market. Individual developers may continue their work by turning off their phones and avoiding the news. However, to achieve a comfortable standard of living, it's important to reassess your current circumstances. It may be worth considering relocation to improve your working and living conditions. A change of scenery can open up new opportunities and aid in professional development. For those striving for a high standard of living, the issue of relocation is especially important. Without income from abroad and with difficulties promoting a product on social media, companies risk facing a significant decline in profits. Relocation can open new business opportunities, providing access to international markets and improving financial performance. A sound relocation strategy will not only help maintain existing revenue but also increase it by expanding its audience and leveraging digital platforms.

China has over 100 cities with populations exceeding one million, while Russia has only 15. This contrast highlights how difficult it is to start a business from scratch with limited revenue. The need to adapt to high market demands and a competitive environment makes this task even more challenging.

The current economic situation points to stagnation, while the IT sector is transforming into an essential service for high-tech companies. Shifts in consumption and demand require us to quickly adapt to new conditions. These changes require a rethinking of strategies and approaches to meet the demands of the modern market and effectively seize the opportunities that open up to businesses. Adapting to new realities will be key to successful development in an unstable economy.

Game development is, first and foremost, a creative process, but finding a balance between creativity and commerce is becoming increasingly difficult. Unique gaming projects often go unnoticed amidst the clutter of popular genres and analytical data. The pressure to meet market demands and audience expectations sometimes suppresses original ideas. It's important to recognize that a successful gaming project requires not only a creative approach but also a sound analysis of market trends. Thus, developers should focus on creating high-quality content that can compete with established genres while maintaining its own individuality.

Indie gaming continues to thrive, providing opportunities for self-expression and original design solutions. This philosophy will remain relevant regardless of economic conditions and, like the classic Tetris, will continue to influence the video game industry. Indie developers create unique projects that attract players and set new trends, confirming the importance of diversity in the world of gaming.

Alexey Krylyshkin: The Path of an Indie Developer at Eclipse

In the world of indie development, where creativity faces various challenges, a wise quote often comes to mind: "When you don't know what to do, do what must be done, and come what may." This thought perfectly reflects my experience creating the game Eclipse. Game development requires not only a creative approach, but also the ability to adapt to unpredictable situations. Every stage, from concept to implementation, is filled with challenges and discoveries that shape a unique gameplay experience. Eclipse is the result of perseverance and a desire for self-expression, making it a reflection of all the effort invested in creating a quality indie product.

Indie game development is a combination of creativity and resilience. In March, I faced a difficult period filled with uncertainty and frustration. Despite wanting to take a break and temporarily stop updating the project on social media, I continued to work diligently on the free DLC for Eclipse. This experience has become an important step in my career as a developer, allowing me to gain a deeper understanding of the game creation process and overcoming challenges.

I noticed that many players were experiencing issues purchasing games and decided to take a step toward helping. I gave away 50 keys for Eclipse to random subscribers on the VKontakte platform. This decision was aimed at giving players the opportunity to take a break from their daily worries and enjoy engaging gaming.

At that time, alternative methods of purchasing games through various services were actively discussed, raising the issue of high fees. This led me to offer players the opportunity to purchase keys directly by donating to the group. This approach turned out to be more advantageous compared to Steam prices, which attracted the attention of many users.

Valve shared positive news, announcing its efforts to provide developers with fairer conditions for revenue. This announcement was an encouraging sign, indicating a possible improvement in the situation in the industry.

Eclipse continues to gain popularity on the GOG and Steam platforms. Despite the lack of information about withdrawals from GOG, there is confidence that the situation will normalize, as has already happened on Steam. The game attracts users' attention thanks to its unique gameplay and high-quality development, which contributes to its growth and an increasing number of fans.

There's always a way out in life, and it's important to persevere and continue doing what brings you joy. I realized that money shouldn't be my top priority. Even if I take a break, sooner or later the desire to create something new will resurface. The most important things are creativity and interaction with players, who are eager to develop both the story and the mechanics of Eclipse. Focusing on these aspects allows us not only to overcome difficulties but also to reach new heights in gameplay.

The key rule "Do what you must, come what may" remains an important guideline throughout the development process. This principle helps us focus on completing necessary tasks and not be distracted by external circumstances. Following this rule promotes efficient work and allows us to achieve our development goals.

Artem Kopyl: Inspiring Development Leader of Will&Reason

In today's environment, when the world faces numerous global challenges, it is especially important to pay attention to the specific difficulties that development teams face. Our indie team, Will&Reason, works under limited time and resources, making our project a unique example of the desire to create a high-quality game. We overcome difficulties to bring our ideas to life and offer players an engaging gaming experience despite the existing limitations.

We have just released a new development diary, detailing the mechanics and concept of our game. While this is not the final trailer, it clearly demonstrates our current progress towards creating the working demo version we are striving for. This diary offers a fascinating glimpse into the development process, allowing players to better understand how we're working on the project and what innovations we plan to implement. We're confident this material will engage our audience and provide insight into the future gaming experience.

To achieve our goals, we need to expand the team, but in the current environment, this presents a significant challenge. We continue to work without a financial budget, which limits our ability to attract investment to complete the final version of the game.

We've now built a strong art department, made possible by the flexibility of team members who can periodically work on their main projects. However, programmers require constant involvement, and finding experienced specialists willing to contribute to the project has become a real challenge.

The difficulties associated with balancing their main job and game development led us to switch to a full-time format for the lead developer. This decision has significantly improved the project's results, as demonstrated in our recent video diaries. We are confident that full immersion in the development process will contribute to higher-quality and faster game creation, as well as an increased level of interaction with our audience.

Modern realities are characterized by increased work stress and reduced income, forcing employees to seek additional sources of income. As a result, some are considering relocating in search of better living and working conditions.

The emergence of game development grants creates new opportunities for developers. We are confident that we will be able to take advantage of this support in the future, which will allow us to realize creative ideas and improve the quality of our games.

Our team is dominated by a spirit of enthusiasm and dedication. We have never resorted to collecting donations from our audience, who eagerly await the release of our game. Instead, we focus on supporting and encouraging our subscribers. In the near future, we plan to organize a giveaway of several art books for the game Will & Reason, which will allow our fans to get a closer look at the world and atmosphere of the project. We value each of you and strive to build a community that will grow and develop with us.

Recently, we have seen a significant increase in artbook printing prices, reflecting the challenging economic conditions. Six months ago, we ordered a batch of artbooks for free distribution, and now the price has almost doubled. Despite this, we will still hold the contest. This step underscores our commitment to supporting art and creative initiatives in the face of market changes. We are confident that artbooks continue to be an important element of cultural life and inspiration for many.

Maintaining the spirit of free creativity and mutual support is the foundation of the indie team's success. We actively support other projects and share information about them within our community. However, some platforms where we previously published news have begun introducing paid services. This change impacts our information distribution strategy, and we are looking for new ways to support independent developers and share news. We believe that free access to information contributes to the development of creative ideas and a stronger community of indie developers.

Our team recently received an offer for significant compensation for the integration of unique stickers we were planning to give away to contest participants. However, we decided to decline the offer because the cost of the stickers exceeded the budget allocated for the game's development.

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