Housemarque Prioritizes Single-Player Experiences
Housemarque, the developer responsible for popular games like Returnal and Nex Machina, has made it clear that they are sticking to their guns when it comes to game development. Instead of jumping on the live-service or free-to-play bandwagon, the studio is dedicated to creating paid single-player experiences. This decision was solidified during Housemarque’s 30th anniversary event in Finland.
A Focus on Identity and Quality
Studio director Ilari Kuittinen emphasized that as long as there is a demand for premium games, Housemarque will continue down this path. He likened their games to movies or TV series, meant to be enjoyed in a specific moment in time rather than played indefinitely. Creative director Gregory Louden echoed this sentiment, highlighting the team’s commitment to single-player and premium games with their upcoming project, Saros, being developed exclusively for the PlayStation 5.
Since being acquired by Sony in 2021, Housemarque has strived to maintain its unique identity and reputation for delivering high-quality games. Brand director Mikael Haveri stressed the importance of each new title in solidifying the studio’s standing in the industry, noting that their strength is determined by the success of their latest release.
Staying True to Tradition
While many companies are leaning towards live-service games, Housemarque’s decision to focus on closed experiences and narratives sets them apart in the industry. Despite the trend towards ongoing engagement and monetization, the studio remains committed to crafting games that offer intense, standalone experiences without the need for a long-term commitment.
Source
About the Author
