Rockstar and the Independent Workers Union of Great Britain timeline of events

Union supporters rally outside Rockstar Games headquarters, holding banners and chanting slogans advocating for better working conditions and fair wages for employees in the gaming industry.

In early September 2023, the IWGB announced its formal recognition as a representative body for Rockstar’s workers, following a series of complaints regarding workplace practices. The union’s efforts aim to address concerns over long hours, job security, and the lack of adequate benefits for employees, similar to the challenges outlined in Meta Workers Create A.I. … Read more

IO Interactive’s Next Game May Not Be James Bond or Hitman

A group of game developers at IO Interactive discusses plans for future projects in a modern office setting, highlighting a shift away from established franchises.

The announcement follows the release of 007: First Light on October 5, 2023, which received positive reviews for its engaging gameplay and storytelling. However, the studio’s leadership has indicated that future projects are likely to steer away from both the Bond and Hitman universes, marking a significant change in their development strategy. You can read … Read more

Ustwo Games considers hiring contractors to cut development costs

A group of Ustwo Games employees discusses strategies in a modern office space, surrounded by gaming artwork and project boards.

The company has been facing challenges in balancing its budget while continuing to deliver high-quality gaming experiences. With the gaming industry evolving rapidly, Ustwo Games recognizes the importance of adapting its workforce to remain agile and cost-effective. This is a concern that is reflected in other sectors as well, as explored in articles like Understanding … Read more

Katsuhiro Harada returns with a new studio in collaboration with SNK

Katsuhiro Harada stands confidently at a press conference announcing his new studio in collaboration with SNK, surrounded by eager fans and journalists.

Harada’s deep expertise in game design and his understanding of player expectations are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the studio’s direction and the games it will produce, much like the innovative approaches seen in Gearbox Quebec’s new studio. This collaboration with SNK, a company known for its iconic fighting games like King … Read more

Two of the Best VR Games Are Making Their Switch Debut This Summer

A group of gamers excitedly discusses the upcoming release of two popular VR games on the Nintendo Switch during a gaming convention.

The games in question, which have garnered critical acclaim for their immersive gameplay and innovative mechanics, will be released on the Switch on July 15 and August 12, respectively. By adapting these titles for a handheld console, the developers aim to reach players who may not own VR equipment, thus expanding their market reach. This … Read more

CCP Games rebrands as Fenris Creations after sale from Pearl Abyss

Employees at Fenris Creations celebrate the company's rebranding with a banner unveiling at their headquarters, showcasing the new logo and brand identity.

The decision to rebrand comes as Fenris Creations aims to diversify its portfolio beyond the established EVE franchise, which has been a hallmark of CCP Games’ success. By distancing itself from the previous ownership, Fenris Creations hopes to foster a fresh image that resonates with both existing fans of the iconic EVE Online and potential … Read more

Kotaku expands with new Senior Reporter Rebekah Valentine

Rebekah Valentine smiles as she sits at her new desk at Kotaku, surrounded by gaming memorabilia and a laptop, ready to begin her role as Senior Reporter.

This hiring comes in the wake of Kotaku’s acquisition by a new ownership group, which has expressed a commitment to revitalizing the brand. The decision to bring Valentine on board is seen as a strategic effort to attract a broader audience and improve the site’s journalistic integrity amid a rapidly evolving media landscape. For more … Read more

Polyarc Games faces layoffs amid industry challenges

A group of employees at Polyarc Games gathers outside the studio, discussing the recent layoffs and the uncertain future of the company.

The decision to downsize comes amid a challenging economic landscape for the gaming industry, where many developers are grappling with increased costs and changing market dynamics. This move has sparked discussions about the sustainability of smaller studios in a competitive environment dominated by larger companies. Polyarc Games, founded in 2015, has gained recognition for its … Read more

Take-Two Interactive announces layoffs in AI division

A group of TakeTwo Interactive employees gathers outside the company's headquarters, expressing their concerns and frustrations following the announcement of layoffs in the AI division.

The AI team, which had been working on innovative projects to enhance gaming experiences, was seen as a key component of Take-Two’s future strategy. For more insights on industry trends, check out our article on supply chain shifts. Industry experts are closely monitoring the implications of this decision, as it reflects a growing trend among … Read more

Nintendo Switch 2 digital games pricing strategy in the US

A group of gamers eagerly discusses the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 while examining a display showcasing digital game pricing strategies at a gaming convention.

The pricing details have not been officially confirmed by Nintendo, but industry insiders suggest that this approach aims to attract a broader audience, particularly those who prefer the convenience of digital downloads. As consumers increasingly opt for digital formats, this move could significantly influence purchasing behaviors, especially among younger gamers who prioritize instant access to … Read more