A Veteran Developer Reflects on the Shifting Landscape of EA and Activision
The recent industry changes at Electronic arts (EA) and Activision have prompted a wave of reflection, particularly from those who spent formative years within these publishing giants. Glen Schofield, a veteran developer known for his work on Dead Space and The Callisto Protocol, recently shared a poignant LinkedIn post expressing gratitude and acknowledging the impact these companies had on his career – and the industry as a whole. His words resonate with many, signaling a significant shift in the power dynamics of game development.
Schofield’s message isn’t simply nostalgia. It’s a thoughtful assessment of what made EA and Activision unique,and a hopeful outlook for the future. Let’s break down his observations and what they mean for you, whether your a developer, a gamer, or simply interested in the evolution of the industry.
The Distinct Cultures of EA and Activision
Schofield distinctly characterized the internal environments of both companies, highlighting how those cultures fostered growth and innovation.
* EA: He described a highly structured surroundings. This disciplined approach,while demanding,forced developers to meticulously understand every facet of their games. Franchise reviews were rigorous, leaving no room for shortcuts.
* Activision: In contrast, Activision fostered a more dynamic, even chaotic, atmosphere. Meetings were described as “loud, passionate,” fueled by a collection of strong personalities. yet, this energy was channeled towards a singular goal: making the best possible game.
Both approaches, Schofield argues, were effective. EA instilled a foundation of precision and detail, while Activision encouraged bold ideas and relentless iteration.
The Legacy of Training Grounds
The core of Schofield’s message centers on the role EA and Activision played as incubators for talent. He emphasizes that these companies “trained generations of us,” building careers and setting a high bar for quality.
This isn’t hyperbole. Both publishers were instrumental in launching the careers of countless developers, artists, and designers. They provided opportunities to work on blockbuster franchises, learn from industry leaders, and hone skills that would shape the future of gaming. You can see the impact of this training in studios across the industry today.
Acknowledging Change and Looking Ahead
Schofield doesn’t shy away from acknowledging the current state of affairs. He recognizes the “bittersweet” feeling of watching these companies evolve, stepping back from their former dominance. However, he frames this change as an opportunity.
He believes new leadership, studios, and publishers will emerge to fill the void. His hope is that these entities will prioritize talent development and investment, mirroring the commitment demonstrated by EA and Activision in their prime.
“Someone will take that mantle, we always do as an industry,” he wrote.
Schofield’s Personal Journey & Future Ambitions
Schofield’s reflections are particularly poignant given his recent experiences. He’s been actively exploring new opportunities after the release of The Callisto Protocol and a subsequent search for funding for a new project.
* He previously expressed hope to return to the Dead Space franchise, even reaching out to EA’s new owners with a pitch.
* He hinted at potential retirement from game development after facing difficulties securing funding for his latest venture.
These experiences underscore the challenges facing self-reliant developers and the ever-changing nature of the industry.
What This Means for the Future of Gaming
Schofield’s message serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of investing in people. The success of any game,or any company,ultimately relies on the talent and dedication of its developers.
As the industry continues to consolidate and evolve, it’s crucial that new leaders prioritize fostering a creative environment where individuals can thrive. The legacy of EA and Activision isn’t just in the games they published, but in the people they empowered.
ultimately, Schofield’s words are a call to action: to learn from the past, embrace the future, and continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in gaming.
Further Reading:
* [Eurogamer: Dead Space creator hopeful EA’s new owners will let him make dead Space 4](https://www.eurogamer.net/dead-space-creator-hopeful-eas-new-owners-will-let-him-make-dead-space-4-promising-to-save-
