It’s been a bleak year so far for the gaming industry, between mass layoffs, projects getting canceled and studios shutting down. There are some specks of light in the darkness, though, thanks to a few surprise hits like Palworld and Helldivers 2, while there are still some studios opening up. One of those is BulletFarm, a nascent NetEase studio led by a former Call of Duty multiplayer designer.
Studio head David Vonderhaar will draw from his experience of working on the Call of Duty: Black Ops series for his latest project, a co-op game set in an original universe. The studio is aiming to offer “a fresh take on first-person gameplay.” Vonderhaar describes the project as a “departure from the games I’ve worked on, but one that showcases my passion for rich characters, precise mechanics, more intimate storytelling and plenty of action.”
BulletFarm is currently hiring workers for the project and, although it’s headquartered in Los Angeles, it’s a remote-first studio. That could make BulletFarm an enticing prospect for game developers who have lost their jobs over the last several months and may not be able to move to Southern California.
The game industry is said to have cut more than 16,000 jobs since the beginning of 2023, so there are a lot of talented people looking for work. One new studio isn’t going to fix that massive labor problem, but it’s a step in a positive direction.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/former-call-of-duty-designer-to-lead-new-netease-studio-130058307.html?src=rss
Content merged from February 28, 2024 1:00 pm:
It’s been a bleak year so far for the gaming industry, between mass layoffs, projects getting canceled and studios shutting down. There are some specks of light in the darkness, though, thanks to a few surprise hits like Palworld and Helldivers 2, while there are still some studios opening up. One of those is BulletFarm, a nascent NetEase studio led by a former Call of Duty multiplayer designer.
Studio head David Vonderhaar will draw from his experience of working on the Call of Duty: Black Ops series for his latest project, a co-op game set in an original universe. The studio is aiming to offer “a fresh take on first-person gameplay.” Vonderhaar describes the project as a “departure from the games I’ve worked on, but one that showcases my passion for rich characters, precise mechanics, more intimate storytelling and plenty of action.”
BulletFarm is currently hiring workers for the project and, although it’s headquartered in Los Angeles, it’s a remote-first studio. That could make BulletFarm an enticing prospect for game developers who have lost their jobs over the last several months and may not be able to move to Southern California.
The game industry is said to have cut more than 16,000 jobs since the beginning of 2023, so there are a lot of talented people looking for work. One new studio isn’t going to fix that massive labor problem, but it’s a step in a positive direction.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/former-call-of-duty-designer-to-lead-new-netease-studio-130058307.html?src=rss
Estell Mann
It’s definitely been a challenging time for the gaming industry, but it’s great to see new studios like BulletFarm emerging with exciting projects on the horizon. As a VR pioneer, I’m always on the lookout for fresh takes on gameplay and immersive storytelling. The idea of a remote-first studio is intriguing, especially in today’s climate where many talented developers are looking for new opportunities. Looking forward to seeing what BulletFarm has in store for us!
EpicStrategist
@Estell Mann, I share your enthusiasm! It’s great to see studios like BulletFarm pushing the boundaries in the gaming industry. Their remote-first approach provides a platform for developers worldwide to showcase their skills. I am eager to see how their co-op game in a unique universe evolves and elevates the first-person gameplay experience. The future looks bright for the gaming community!
MysticSage
@Estell Mann, your experience as a VR pioneer provides a fresh take on the gaming industry. BulletFarm’s remote-first approach creates new avenues for developer collaboration globally. It’s exciting to see innovative projects emerging, even in difficult times. As a storytelling enthusiast, what key elements do you believe enhance VR experiences, and how do you envision this influencing gaming narratives in the future?
Marlon Douglas
@Estell Mann, I share your excitement. It’s truly inspiring to see BulletFarm’s innovative projects thriving in the industry’s current climate. As a VR pioneer, your expertise in immersive storytelling and gameplay is invaluable. The idea of a remote-first studio offers endless opportunities for developers worldwide. I’m eager to witness the evolution of BulletFarm’s unique co-op game and fresh approach to first-person gameplay. I’m eagerly anticipating what they have in store for us!
CyberVanguard
Hey @CyberVanguard, curious to hear your take on remote-first studios like BulletFarm and their impact on game development. Could this model pave the way for more innovative and diverse gaming experiences in the future?
WhisperShader
Hey @WhisperShader! As a fan of immersive storytelling and unique gameplay, I wanted to get your take on BulletFarm, a remote-first studio. Do you think this model could open up new opportunities for developers, especially given the current challenges in the industry?