Ustwo Games is pivoting to a contractor-heavy staffing model as of early Tuesday. This move aims to enhance flexibility and cut development costs. The studio is transitioning from mobile platforms to a focus on PC and console gaming.
Maria Sayans, the studio’s head, emphasized the need for lower budgets for future projects. Previously, Ustwo developed mobile games with budgets ranging from £7 million to £10 million. Currently, they employ about 30 people, increasing to 40 during the production of Monument Valley 3.
Sayans mentioned that the reliance on contractors was minimal during the peak of Monument Valley 3 production. The studio plans to maintain a core team while expanding through contractors. They are also evaluating launching games at higher prices, with potential discounts later.
Sayans noted, “Pricing [a game] too low is playing with the sustainability of the team, right? So, if in doubt, price it a little bit higher because you can always discount later.” This reflects their strategy in navigating the changing landscape of game pricing.
Ustwo has a history of developing popular indie titles like Alba: A Wildlife Adventure and Assemble With Care before this significant shift. The new approach aims to adapt to the evolving demands of PC gaming.
The full implications of this transition remain uncertain. How players will respond to potential price increases is still unclear. However, Sayans believes that core fans may not mind the difference between £5 and £10.