Dev clarifies long wait for Wolverine & Wonder Woman game announcements

We've all witnessed a significant shift in the time it takes to create games compared to the past. One former Naughty Dog developer has shed light on why some studios choose to announce their projects well in advance of their readiness. Del Walker, with an impressive resume that includes Naughty Dog, SEGA, Respawn, and Rocksteady, recently quote tweeted a post about the premature announcement of the upcoming Wonder Woman and Wolverine games. His tweet read, "Before I worked in games I used to think this. Let me help you understand why studios NEED to announce games 'too early' sometimes."

Uncover the Reasons Behind Early Game Announcements

Reason 1: Funding

Teasers often serve as a means to attract investors or gain publishers' confidence. As Del Walker explains, "If that YouTube view count gets high enough, and the comments are popping, then the Directors can secure a higher investment or justify that wild ass requested budget." This shows how teasers play a crucial role in securing the necessary financial resources for game development. A high view count and active comments can act as a signal to potential investors that the game has potential and is worth their investment.Another aspect of funding is that it allows studios to plan and allocate resources more effectively. With a clear understanding of the investment they can secure, studios can make informed decisions about hiring additional staff, purchasing equipment, and allocating budgets for different aspects of the game development process. This ensures that the game has the necessary resources to reach its full potential.

Reason 2: Attracting Talent

The video game industry is known for its secrecy, and often actors find themselves reading lines without even knowing the game they are working on. Del Walker emphasizes that the best Artists, Designers, Coders, etc. need to see something exciting to be motivated to move to a new city and contribute to a game. A well-announced game project can act as a magnet for talent, attracting skilled professionals who are eager to be part of a promising project.For example, when a studio announces a highly anticipated game, it creates a buzz in the industry. This buzz attracts the attention of talented individuals who are looking for new challenges and opportunities. They are more likely to be interested in joining a studio that is working on an exciting game rather than one that is shrouded in mystery. By announcing projects early, studios can position themselves as attractive employers and build a team of top-notch talent.

Reason 3: Controlling Fan Expectations

Announcing a game early allows studios to manage fan expectations. If everyone knows that Naughty Dog is working on a new game, they are less likely to try and compete with it by making something in the same genre. This helps studios avoid unnecessary competition and focus on creating unique and high-quality games.Moreover, by giving fans a glimpse of what to expect, studios can build anticipation and create a loyal fan base. Fans who are aware of a game's existence and development progress are more likely to be engaged and supportive throughout the development process. This can lead to increased sales and a more successful launch.

Reason 4: Keeping Competitors in Check

If a studio decides to make a new IP instead of continuing a popular series like God of War, it can lead to disappointment among fans. By announcing their plans early, studios can manage fan expectations and avoid potential backlash. It also allows competitors to plan accordingly and make informed decisions about their own product strategies.For instance, if a competitor knows that a particular studio is working on a new game, they can adjust their own plans to avoid direct competition. This can lead to a more diverse and competitive gaming market, where studios are able to explore new ideas and genres without fear of being overshadowed by established franchises.In conclusion, while there is no perfect strategy for game development, early announcements play a crucial role in the inner workings of the industry. They help secure funding, attract talent, manage fan expectations, and keep competitors in check. By understanding these reasons, studios can make more informed decisions about when and how to announce their projects, ultimately leading to more successful game development.If you're looking for games that are not too far away, be sure to check out all the 2024 video game release dates.