Concerns over the future of AAA video games are rising as industry leader Josef Fares, director of Split Fiction and the acclaimed game It Takes Two, highlights a growing trend towards AA games. In a recent interview with The Game Business, Fares expressed his apprehension about the potential consequences of the increasing popularity of AA titles, such as the award-winning Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.
Fares emphasized that while he values AAA games, the success of AA projects could disrupt the traditional landscape of high-budget gaming. “I would not be able to live without a AAA title,” he stated, underscoring his desire for blockbuster experiences. This commentary comes during a period of significant downsizing in the gaming industry, affecting major companies like EA, Ubisoft, Take-Two, Xbox, and PlayStation. Although the relationship between this downsizing and the rise of AA development remains uncertain, Fares noted that smaller studios often have the flexibility to take creative risks without the pressure from investors.
Amid this shifting landscape, Fares praised several AAA studios for their commitment to innovation despite their substantial budgets. He specifically mentioned Naughty Dog, Rockstar Games, and Nintendo as examples of companies that successfully balance high production values with creativity. “I would argue that, actually, Naughty Dog is pushing the envelope of innovation with a AAA budget,” Fares remarked. He added that while it is possible to create ambitious titles with innovative concepts, the financial stakes can lead to a more cautious approach. “Once you go over a $100 million budget, you’re going to be like, ‘okay, shit. There’s a lot of money on the table’. People are more scared. It’s understandable. But it’s proven that you can do it.”
Looking ahead, the future of AAA gaming remains uncertain, especially with highly anticipated titles like Naughty Dog’s Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet and Rockstar’s GTA 6 on the horizon. While these studios have a track record of innovation, it remains to be seen whether they will continue to embrace risks in their upcoming releases. In contrast, Nintendo has maintained a consistent reputation for creativity, often steering away from conventional trends in the gaming industry.
As for Fares’s own company, Hazelight Studios, the focus appears to be on local multiplayer experiences. COO Oskar Wolontis recently stated, “As long as the couch is there, there’s going to be a need for couch co-op.” This commitment to cooperative gameplay reflects a growing demand for social gaming experiences, even as the industry grapples with shifting dynamics.
In summary, as the gaming landscape evolves, the balance between AAA and AA titles may shape the future of the industry. While Fares and other industry leaders acknowledge the challenges posed by the rise of AA games, the continued success of innovative AAA projects will be crucial in maintaining the allure of high-budget gaming.
