Guerrilla Games reverses live-service strategy for Horizon Hunters Gathering following player complaints.
In a notable development for Horizon Hunters Gathering, Guerrilla Games has decided to remove the live-service components from its title due to negative player feedback. This decision comes after reported dissatisfaction among players, compelling the studio to reconsider its approach. As reported by both Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier and GameDeveloper, the removal signals a significant shift in strategy for the PlayStation-owned developer. This move also aligns with the broader gaming industry’s ongoing debate over live-service elements, often criticized when quality and frequency of updates don’t meet player expectations.
Harvey Smith Launches New Studio with Arkane Austin Alumni
Another major development in the industry is the creation of Black Pony Immersive, a new game development studio led by former Arkane Austin head Harvey Smith and fellow veteran Ben Horne. According to GamesIndustry.biz and GameDeveloper, the new studio aims to focus on first-person action RPGs, continuing the legacy of their previous endeavors at Arkane. This move comes two years after the closure of Arkane Austin by Microsoft, which left 96 developers without jobs and reflects the resilience of industry veterans in the face of corporate restructurings.
Apple Lowers EU App Store Commission
In a significant policy shift, Apple will reduce its App Store commission rates in the EU. This decision is part of an agreement with the European Commission to resolve compliance issues related to Apple’s “gatekeeper” status. As reported by GameWorldObserver, the move comes amid ongoing scrutiny and regulatory challenges facing major tech platform operators, highlighting Apple’s willingness to negotiate policy points to maintain its market standing.
New Cooperative Gaming Venture: Raze and Rebuild Studio
Lastly, the formation of Raze and Rebuild Studio introduces a fresh approach within the gaming industry. This new cooperative company is founded by experienced triple-A developers and accessibility experts, with the goal of leveraging its unique co-op structure to enhance game development processes. This initiative, as covered by GameDeveloper, could pave the way for more inclusive and innovative game design, emphasising the collaborative potential of industry veterans in reshaping traditional business models.
