Jason Schreier joins to talk Bungie cuts + Game Informer crew discuss closure
Aug 9, 2024
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Jason Schreier, a renowned journalist known for his insightful gaming industry reporting, dives into Bungie's recent layoffs and their impact on the company’s future. He discusses the challenges facing Bungie, particularly the dip in Destiny 2's player engagement, and reflects on the broader implications for the gaming industry. Additionally, the Game Informer team shares heartfelt memories as they confront the bittersweet closure of their publication, exploring its significance in gaming history and the emotional connections formed over the years.
The emotional impact of recent layoffs shapes the Game Informer team’s reflections on their shared history and community bonds.
Amidst challenges, the legacy of Game Informer is highlighted as a cornerstone of gaming journalism, celebrating its influential role over 33 years.
Optimism for the future fuels the team’s pursuit of new projects and freelance opportunities while advocating for their talented colleagues.
The collaboration with Devolver Digital empowers the developers to create innovative games like Plucky Squire without compromising their vision.
Innovative gameplay mechanics in Plucky Squire blend 2D and 3D experiences, offering players a diverse and engaging gaming journey.
Deep dives
The Legacy of Game Informer
The discussion reflects on the storied history of Game Informer, emphasizing its role as a cornerstone in gaming journalism for 33 years. The team members share their experiences and the strong sense of community that developed among the staff throughout their time there. They note that even as the company faced challenges, the dedication and passion of the people involved always shone through in their work. Their collective memories and the impact they made in the industry demonstrate the significance of Game Informer's legacy in shaping gaming culture.
Emotional Farewell and Support
The emotional toll of the recent layoffs hits hard for the team, as they process losing not just their jobs, but also a publication they deeply cared about. They express gratitude for the overwhelming support they've received from fans and colleagues, which has helped to soften the blow during this difficult transition. The camaraderie and friendships formed during their time at Game Informer have left a lasting impression on each of them, and they vow to cherish those connections. Moving forward, they hope to find new opportunities while also advocating for their talented colleagues who may not have the same visibility.
Proud Memories and Accomplishments
Each member shares standout moments from their time at Game Informer, reflecting on cover stories and projects they are especially proud of. They highlight the collaborative nature of their work, showcasing how support from their peers allowed them to deliver high-quality content. Notable mentions include exciting trips to Japan to cover big titles and unique interviews with influential game developers. These memories serve as a reminder of the creative impact they had on the industry and the relationships fostered within the editorial team.
The Future Beyond Game Informer
As they look toward the future, the team is optimistic about the potential of finding new projects and opportunities that will allow them to continue their work in gaming. Some have already begun exploring various freelance opportunities, while others are launching personal projects or consolidating their existing relationships with game developers. Each member expresses a determination to remain connected to gaming and to leverage their skills to create meaningful content wherever they go. While the shift is daunting, they are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.
Tackling New Genres and Challenges
The conversation shifts to the gaming industry as they explore the potential for developers to successfully venture into different genres outside of their established expertise. They share exciting examples of studios that have excelled in creating original titles while also maintaining their core strengths. This sets the stage for discussions about upcoming titles that combine familiar gameplay elements with innovative twists. The team expresses enthusiasm for how these developments can enrich gaming experiences and broaden the horizons for players.
High Standards in Game Development
As they transition to their new projects, the focus on quality and high standards in game development remains top of mind. They emphasize the importance of creating engaging gameplay that resonates with players and ensuring that each title feels fresh and complete. This dedication to quality stems from their experiences at Game Informer, where delivering exceptional content was paramount. The conversation encourages a thoughtful and careful approach to game design, reflecting their combined passion for creating memorable experiences in the gaming industry.
Devolver Digital and Creative Freedom
The team discusses how they secured a partnership with Devolver Digital, highlighting the studio's commitment to nurturing innovative and original games. Their collaboration with Devolver has allowed them the creative freedom to develop their vision for Plucky Squire without compromising their ideas. This relationship embodies the belief that strong partnerships can lead to compelling and unique titles that resonate with players. They express optimism about how this collaboration will enhance their project and foster a successful launch.
Building a Multidimensional Experience
They delve into the multi-faceted gameplay of Plucky Squire, which combines traditional 2D platforming mechanics with dynamic 3D interactions. This innovation allows players to seamlessly transition between dimensions, providing a truly engaging experience. The team has focused on ensuring each section of the game is enriched with variety, from combat encounters to unique mini-games. Their commitment to delivering a high-quality, diverse gameplay experience sets the stage for a compelling title within the indie gaming landscape.
Anticipation for Community Engagement
The developers express excitement about the upcoming release of Plucky Squire, eagerly awaiting community reaction and engagement with the characters and story. They hope that players will resonate with the game's themes and humor, while also enjoying the charming art style. There is genuine enthusiasm for the opportunity to connect with fans through their work and for the game's potential to carve a unique niche in the gaming world. As they prepare for launch, they remain committed to fostering a sense of community and connection with their audience.
An Emotional Resilience
Despite current challenges, the team remains resilient in pursuing their passion for games. They encourage each other to stay optimistic and maintain their love for the industry as they navigate the uncertainties ahead. Their journey from Game Informer to future endeavors embodies the belief that hard work and dedication can lead to new opportunities. Ultimately, they are ready to embrace their next chapter in the gaming landscape, equipped with the skills and experiences they've gained along the way.
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Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
09:27 Bungie Layoffs with Jason Schreier
58:12 Raycon (ad)
01:01:20 User Question 1
01:10:32 Game Informer Closure with Marcus Stewart, Brian Shea, Alex Van Aken
01:59:54 AG1 (ad)
02:02:22 Plucky Squire Interview with Jon Biddle (Bidds) and James Turner
02:29:10 User Question 2
02:34:37 What We've Been Playing
03:02:21 Show and Tell
03:14:38 Wrap Up
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Let's meet our hosts!
- Jake Baldino (aka the Before You Buy Guy) is pretty much the most watched reviewer on YouTube across both Gameranx and his personal channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/JakeBaldino). If you're obsessed with Delorians, The Mummy and Pizza you can discuss that stuff with him directly over on Twitter: @JakeBaldino
- Lucy James is a Senior Producer at Gamespot and a Creative Producer at Giant Bomb. She's actually, like, experienced and credentialed and has real life skills and stuff, while the rest of the gang would be funemployed if the YT algorithm didn't kiss them for random, inexplicable reasons.
- Skill Up used to work at McDonalds but he got fired for skimming too many chicken nuggets. He says he regrets it since he hasn't had a better job since.
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