Shawn Layden, a former executive at PlayStation, has issued a call to action for platform holders like Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo to do more to "reconstitute a double-A category of gaming." Layden believes that the rising costs of creating blockbuster games have created a need for a renewed focus on smaller-scale, more diverse gaming experiences to attract and retain players.

Unlocking the Potential of the Double-A Gaming Segment

Bridging the Gap Between Indie and Triple-A

Layden argues that platform holders must do more to foster games that fall between the "Grand Theft Auto layer and Among Us layer." He believes that by encouraging the creation of smaller-scale games, platform holders can help alleviate the budget and team size issues currently facing the triple-A games industry. Layden suggests that a budget of around $20 million, combined with the industry's talented pool of developers, can lead to the creation of more interesting and diverse gaming experiences.

Addressing the Stagnation in the Gaming Industry

According to Layden, the gaming industry is facing a concerning trend where a significant portion of playtime is spent in games that are six years old or older. He believes that this stagnation is a result of the industry's reliance on sequels and a lack of new and innovative gaming experiences. Layden emphasizes the need to "get more people into playing games" by offering them content that they find genuinely interesting and engaging.

Rethinking the Business Model

Layden also discusses the industry's need to find new sources of revenue if consumers are unwilling to pay more for games. He points out that the traditional model of increasing game prices to match the rising development costs is no longer sustainable. Layden suggests that the industry must explore alternative revenue streams, such as DLC, microtransactions, and subscriptions, while ensuring that these monetization strategies are implemented in a way that benefits both the industry and the players.

Addressing the Console Power Arms Race

Layden believes that the console power arms race has plateaued, and that a majority of consumers are not interested in marginally more powerful machines. He suggests that the industry must find a way to appeal to a broader audience, including those who were not previously players, in order to maintain a healthy console market.

Embracing a "Hard Reset" on the Business Model

Ultimately, Layden believes that the gaming industry must undergo a "real hard reset" on its business model and the very definition of what it means to be a video game. He suggests that the industry should move away from the expectation of 80-90 hour gaming experiences and instead explore new models that cater to a wider range of player preferences and needs.Shawn Layden's vision for the future of the gaming industry is one that embraces a renewed focus on the double-A gaming segment, a rethinking of the business model, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. By addressing these critical issues, the industry can unlock new avenues for growth, innovation, and player engagement.