Smaller games are essential for overwhelmed players

Nicolas Doucet, the head of Team Asobi, recently shared thoughts about the video game industry during a panel at the Game Developers Conference. His message focused on the value of making smaller games. He emphasized that it is completely acceptable for developers to create compact games that can be finished in a reasonable time. Doucet noted that many players today struggle with their game backlogs. With so many titles available, it can be overwhelming to find time to complete them all. He believes making smaller games allows players to enjoy a fulfilling experience without the pressure of lengthy gameplay. Astro Bot, which won Game of the Year at last year's Game Awards, is an example of this approach. Doucet and his team aimed to design a game that players could realistically finish. He argued that this focus is not only beneficial for development but also appealing to players who appreciate the chance to complete a game without investing excessive hours. Doucet's comments resonate with many gamers who are seeking a break from larger RPGs and similar titles. He calls for more developers to consider creating smaller, manageable games that still provide engaging experiences. Astro Bot's success shows that smaller games can compete at a high level in the industry.