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Those who thought that PlayStation and Xbox would remain phenomena of the ’90s were greatly mistaken. Not only have the two main consoles reached their fifth generation, but the video game industry is also among the most prosperous globally. In 2022, the revenue reached €55.7 billion, and by 2028, it is expected to exceed $435 billion. This is a very optimistic forecast for the gaming world.
The response from users has been nothing short of exceptional, but nothing would work as it should without the software houses behind it. What are they? They are game development companies, spread worldwide, whose role today is crucial in the entertainment sector. The work of these companies is essential, even at the employment level. They are not just gamers who develop games, but diverse, heterogeneous figures with an evident digital vocation but different experiences in various fields. Thus, there are mathematicians, graphic artists, physicists, storytellers, and game-testers.
Software houses like Novomatic, NetEnt, and others that develop casino products have a long history and therefore have the appropriate experience to serve as excellent examples. On par with Sony, born in Japan and famous worldwide, or Ubisoft, the first-ever European development house, and up to Nintendo. And still, there are EA, Santa Monica Studios, Zero Games Studios, and Epic Games. All developers are now associated with at least one successful product.
But how is a game developed?
The expert of the Spanish website Tragaperras Web, Leal Chimeno, has answered the following question.
“Developers’ work is hard, and the public’s response can be decisive, for better or worse, for the success of the game. It starts with comparison work, which can last months or even years. Then it moves on to the first drafts of the project, from the character ideas to the graphic tablet creating the various subjects that will enter the game. It’s a lengthy process, especially when considering that today, user immersion is essential. It’s not enough to build a character; it must have a personality, a soul. And the soul must be narrated: this is why plots and stories are entrusted to storytelling experts. Storytelling thus takes precedence.
The process then moves to all the technical and graphic specifications, with particular attention to sound design, which must perfectly blend with the game, its plot, and its environments. Only in the end comes the final, perhaps most fun, and certainly decisive part: the gameplay, the testing phase before a title is published. And then there’s only the market’s judgement. It can be merciless – and often is – and perhaps does not adequately consider the enormous, multi-year work involved.
In this complex and competitive industry, game developers must continually innovate and push boundaries to captivate and retain players. The development process involves collaboration across multiple disciplines, ensuring that every aspect of the game is polished and engaging.
After the testing phase, developers often iterate on their games based on feedback from game-testers, critics, and the gaming community. This iterative process can lead to significant improvements in gameplay mechanics, visual design, and storytelling”, report the editor of Tragaperras Web.
Marketing also plays a crucial role in the success of a game.
“In a saturated market, it is essential for software houses to effectively promote their products to stand out from the crowd. Marketing teams work closely with developers to create compelling trailers, screenshots, and other promotional materials that showcase the game’s unique features and selling points.
Once a game is released, developers must continue to support it with updates, patches, and downloadable content (DLC) to maintain player interest and satisfaction. This ongoing support can include fixing bugs, balancing gameplay, and adding new features or content to keep the game fresh and appealing to its audience.
In recent years, the rise of esports has further diversified the gaming industry. Competitive gaming events draw large audiences and generate substantial revenue, leading software houses to design games with esports in mind. The potential for a game to become a popular esport can influence its development, with developers focusing on creating balanced, competitive gameplay that is both enjoyable to play and watch”, leads Leal Chimeno.
The Winning Formula: Crafting Immersive Stories and Gameplay Experiences
In conclusion, the game development process is a multifaceted and collaborative effort that requires a wide range of skills and expertise. From the initial concept stages to the game’s release and ongoing support, software houses face numerous challenges in creating a product that will captivate players and stand out in the competitive gaming market. The success of a game depends not only on its technical and artistic merits but also on the ability to tell compelling stories, provide engaging gameplay experiences, and effectively market the product to a global audience. As technology advances and player expectations continue to evolve, software houses must stay ahead of the curve to ensure the continued growth and prosperity of the gaming industry.
