Develop:Brighton showed the UK games industry is done with hand-wringing and is determined to save itself | Opinion

This year at Develop:Brighton, a sense of déjà vu struck me once again. The scorching heat, coupled with recent Microsoft layoffs, felt all too familiar. However, this time, the weather was even hotter, and the cuts ran deeper, with a significant 20% reduction in the Xbox division.

Reflecting on last year’s somber atmosphere, where the industry grappled with past shocks, this year’s tone was different. While conversations about industry challenges and layoffs persisted, there was a noticeable shift towards acceptance. It seems there is a collective understanding that the industry must adapt to a new normal, abandoning old practices.

Conversations revolved around how UK studios can ensure resilience and sustainability in a climate of scarce funding and a struggling AAA blockbuster model. Many suggested closer collaboration as the key. In times of uncertainty, studios are seeking safety in unity, realizing the risks of going solo.

The emergence of regional hubs, networks, and communities was highlighted as a promising solution. Established groups like Game Republic and newer ones like the Manchester Games Network are fostering collaboration. Brian Baglow from the Scottish Games Network urged companies to explore diverse sectors for funding opportunities, leveraging their expertise beyond gaming.

Attendees even discussed the concept of a “hub of hubs,” aiming to connect regional networks for shared knowledge and skills.

At the Specialist XDEV gathering, hosted by Tanglewood Games, PitStop Productions, and Inferno Studios, collaboration took center stage. Discussions revolved around forming alliances between studios with different specializations to offer comprehensive services. While challenging, the industry seems committed to this collaborative approach. It appears that the UK industry is moving past uncertainty and is dedicated to self-preservation, emphasizing mutual support over passive waiting for improvement.

The rise of studio collectives, seen in other parts of Europe with groups like Isle of Strays and Nova Assembly, may be the next step. Kepler Interactive, co-managed by independent studios including Sandfall Interactive, showcases the benefits of collective efforts in sharing successes and failures while maintaining autonomy – a valuable asset amidst corporate upheavals.

Funding emerged as a major discussion point, with slight optimism evident. Venture capital firms like Griffin and Vgames introduced project financing funds that directly support indie developers without equity stakes.

However, traditional funders remain hesitant until games are well into development. This poses a challenge for developers to reach the demo stage, especially with minimal sales from past projects. The question remains: how can developers secure funding for new ventures?

Last summer brought a glimmer of hope with the UK government’s £30 million Games Growth Package over three years, including funds for the UK Games Fund to support prototypes. Yet, other countries like Germany are more generous in funding. The challenge of bridging the prototype funding gap remains critical for UK developers. Mike Bithell from Bithell Games emphasized the struggle for smaller indies to secure funding, hindering their path to attracting publisher investments.

For UK developers to continue innovating, securing prototype funding is paramount. The question lingers: who will take the leap of faith and support these ventures?