video game industry Archives

AppWizard

April 4, 2025

ESA warns of impact of Trump tariffs on games industry

The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) has expressed concerns about tariffs implemented by former President Donald Trump, which could significantly harm the U.S. video game industry by raising hardware prices due to the global sourcing of components from countries like Vietnam and China. ESA's senior vice president, Aubrey Quinn, highlighted that many products consumers buy may be subject to multiple tariffs, leading to increased costs. Quinn described the situation regarding relocating manufacturing jobs to the U.S. as complicated, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of decisions affecting consumers, businesses, and employees. The tariffs include a 46 percent tax on goods from Vietnam and a combined levy and duty of 54 percent on imports from China, posing challenges for the industry in maintaining affordability and accessibility for consumers.

AppWizard

March 28, 2025

Activision user research workers form union

Activision's user research division staff voted to form a union, named the Activision User Research Union-CWA, with a supermajority in favor of unionization. Microsoft has recognized the union as part of its labor neutrality agreement with the Communication Workers of America (CWA). The motivation for unionization was influenced by anticipated layoffs in 2023 and 2024. CWA Local 9400 president Maurice Washington emphasized the need for a protected voice for workers and expressed pride in welcoming the new members into the CWA. This development follows the establishment of the United Videogame Workers-CWA, reflecting a trend of unionization in the gaming industry.

AppWizard

March 7, 2025

Pullup promotes Geoffroy Sardin to CEO

French publisher PullUp Entertainment has appointed Geoffroy Sardin as its new chief executive officer. Sardin joined the company in early 2024 as deputy CEO and has nearly 26 years of experience at Ubisoft. He expressed gratitude to Fabrice Larue and the Board of Directors and emphasized the importance of quality in the company’s AA and Indie games. Sardin aims to maintain the successful strategy while enhancing the organization’s maturity and discipline, with plans for an ambitious launch in the upcoming fiscal year. Executive chairman Fabrice Larue recognized Sardin's significant impact on the company, particularly in increasing live content and effectively structuring creative studios. Sardin was instrumental in the successful launch of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2.

AppWizard

February 25, 2025

Gemma Brown and Rob O’Farrell appointed co-CEOs of Dovetail Games

Dovetail Games has appointed Gemma Brown and Rob O’Farrell as co-CEOs. Brown has 12 years of experience with the company, previously serving as chief operating officer, while O'Farrell has 11 years of experience, having been the chief development officer. Geoffroy Sardin, deputy CEO of PullUp Entertainment, emphasized that their appointment reflects the commitment to promoting internal talent and that their expertise will be valuable for the company's future.

AppWizard

February 8, 2025

Get 2024’s Funniest Game (And 26 Others) For Just $15

The Safe In Our World PC game bundle has launched, featuring over two dozen games for a modest price. This initiative supports a charity focused on enhancing mental health awareness in the gaming community. Founded in 2019, Safe In Our World aims to improve mental health resources for individuals in the gaming sector. The bundle includes notable titles such as Mini Metro, Moonlighter, and Thank Goodness You’re Here! All proceeds from the bundle will benefit Safe In Our World, which raises awareness about mental health challenges in the gaming industry and provides resources for developers, publishers, content creators, and players. The bundle is available through Fanatical and offers a value exceeding 0.

AppWizard

February 5, 2025

ESA wants to be consulted on Trump tariffs

The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) has requested to participate in discussions about future tariffs proposed by President Donald Trump, expressing concern that these tariffs could burden American consumers. The video game industry relies on imported components, particularly from China, and currently faces a 10 percent tariff. There were also plans for a 25 percent tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada, which are temporarily suspended. The ESA stated that tariffs on video game devices and related products would impact Americans of all ages and emphasized the need for a transparent consultation process with the private sector. They highlighted the cultural significance of video games and warned that tariffs could negatively affect hundreds of millions of Americans and the industry's contributions to the US economy. The ESA is eager to collaborate with the Administration and Congress to sustain the economic growth supported by their sector.

AppWizard

December 13, 2024

This year The Game Awards finally tackled the plague of game industry layoffs

Geoff Keighley addressed the significant layoffs in the video game industry over the past two years during The Game Awards, noting the unprecedented nature of these job losses. Amir Satvat created the Games Jobs Resources website to support those affected by these layoffs, offering career planning, job listings, and networking opportunities. He highlighted that over 34,000 jobs have been lost in the last three years, emphasizing the importance of talent in game development.

AppWizard

December 2, 2024

Pillars of Eternity director thought it had a 50/50 shot before it crowdfunded in 27 hours

Obsidian Entertainment faced uncertainty before the success of Pillars of Eternity, particularly during their Kickstarter campaign when crowdfunding was still viewed skeptically. Josh Sawyer, the game's director, initially doubted the viability of a throwback CRPG and considered leaving the studio to pursue the project independently. He urged the studio's owners to embrace the idea, leading to a pivotal moment in their trajectory. On the day of the Kickstarter launch, Sawyer felt a mix of hope and skepticism but became more optimistic as funding surged. He recognized the project's potential when it surpassed million, marking a significant milestone in the campaign's success.

AppWizard

November 25, 2024

2K mocap studio votes for unionisation

Staff at 2K Games' motion-capture studio in California voted to unionize, with 15 employees in favor and six opposed, during an election monitored by the National Labor Relations Board on November 22nd. The unionization effort was supported by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE). Matthew Peterson, a mocap animator, expressed hope that this milestone would inspire other workers in the industry to organize. IATSE International President Matthew Loeb emphasized the broader implications of this victory for labor relations in the video game industry. The unionization campaign began in October.

AppWizard

November 20, 2024

Half-Life 2 review

Half-Life 2 received review scores of 96% in PC Gamer UK and 98% in the US edition. The game is set in City 17 and features meticulously designed environments that invite exploration. Its combat is characterized by impactful sound effects and a physics engine that allows for innovative interactions with the environment. The Gravity Gun is a key gameplay mechanic that enables players to manipulate objects creatively. The game includes challenges that require clever use of the Gravity Gun and encourages exploration through its pacing and side quests. Players encounter human allies and face formidable foes, creating an exhilarating atmosphere. Despite minor criticisms, the game is praised for its storytelling and design, influencing the video game industry significantly.