Devolver Digital, renowned for its quirky and unconventional approach to game publishing, is expanding its impact on the Australian gaming scene. This past week, during PAX Australia, co-founder Graeme Struthers discussed Devolver’s journey, the establishment of its new label Big Fan, and the publisher’s growing involvement with Aussie developers. The conversation highlighted not only Devolver’s distinct character but also what this could mean for the Australian gaming landscape.
The Birth of Devolver’s “Attitude Era” and What It Means for Indie Development
Devolver’s breakout with Hotline Miami set the tone for its “attitude era,” characterised by edgy, bold, and creatively risky projects. The success of such games has allowed Devolver to embrace a style that champions creativity and unorthodoxy, which resonates well with indie developers looking to break away from the mainstream.
Devolver’s Impact on the Indie Space
| Aspect | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Creative Freedom | Allows indie developers to explore unconventional ideas |
| Strong Developer Focus | Prioritises developer relationships over strict publishing demands |
| Risk-Taking and Experimental Games | Encourages unique, experimental game mechanics and narratives |
Insider Tip: When looking to partner with publishers, indie developers should consider how the publisher’s identity aligns with their own vision. Devolver’s focus on creative freedom is a great match for those who wish to push the boundaries of traditional game development.
Big Fan: A New Label for Licensed and Original IPs
Devolver’s launch of the Big Fan label represents a step towards licensed game development while maintaining a distinct separation from its core indie identity. Big Fan’s goal is to allow Devolver to explore high-profile IPs and classic franchises while continuing to support original indie titles. This approach offers new opportunities for Australian developers to work with licensed properties and gain valuable experience in a broader range of projects.
The Role of Big Fan in the Devolver Ecosystem
| Label | Focus |
|---|---|
| Devolver Digital | Original indie games, experimental projects |
| Big Fan | Licensed IPs, classic franchise revivals |
Insider Tip: For studios seeking to expand their portfolio, partnering with Big Fan could be an excellent opportunity to work on established franchises while still benefiting from Devolver’s indie-centric approach.
What This Means for the Aussie Game Development Scene
Devolver’s presence at events like PAX Australia since 2017 has contributed to the growth of the local scene. Their ongoing support for Aussie studios, including publishing titles like Cult of the Lamb and The Plucky Squire, shows a commitment to nurturing homegrown talent. With the addition of Big Fan, Australian developers may find more diverse opportunities to work on a variety of projects, ranging from original indie concepts to licensed game development.
Impact of Devolver’s Involvement in Australia
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Exposure to Global Markets | Helps local developers reach international audiences |
| Increased Project Diversity | Opportunities to work on both indie and licensed games |
| Industry Growth | Attracts attention to the Australian game development scene |
Insider Tip: Australian developers should leverage events like PAX Australia to showcase their projects and network with publishers like Devolver. The indie scene’s vibrancy in Australia can open doors to partnerships that go beyond traditional publishing deals.
Learning from Missed Opportunities
Struthers acknowledged that Devolver has had its share of missed opportunities, such as passing on Astroneer. This experience demonstrates the unpredictability of the gaming market and highlights the importance of taking calculated risks. For Australian developers, the takeaway is to be persistent in seeking partnerships and to learn from any setbacks in the pitching process.
Handling Missed Opportunities in Game Development
| Opportunity | Learning Outcome |
|---|---|
| Missed Game Pitches | Helps refine pitch strategy for future opportunities |
| Passing on Projects | Teaches valuable lessons about market trends |
| Revisiting Missed Games | Sometimes a second look can lead to future collaborations |
Insider Tip: Don’t be discouraged by initial rejections. Use the feedback to refine your pitch and demonstrate the potential growth of your project. Publishers value resilience and a commitment to improvement.
The Importance of Licensed Games in Today’s Market
The decision to establish Big Fan also indicates a shift in the industry’s attitude towards licensed games. Whereas licensed games were once viewed as secondary to original IPs, there is now a growing interest in revitalising classic franchises and exploring licensed properties through a modern indie lens. For the Australian game industry, this could mean more opportunities for local developers to collaborate on globally recognised franchises.
Licensed Games vs. Original IPs
| Game Type | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Licensed Games | Based on existing franchises, appeal to established fanbases |
| Original IPs | New and unique game worlds, often riskier but with potential for innovation |
Insider Tip: Developers should consider how working on a licensed title can strengthen their portfolio. The experience can lead to higher-profile projects and provide valuable industry contacts.
Final Thoughts
Devolver Digital’s growing connection with the Australian gaming scene is a positive development, providing more avenues for local talent to gain exposure and work on diverse projects. The launch of Big Fan adds another layer to this relationship, creating further opportunities for Aussie developers to thrive in a competitive market. With the right strategies, the Australian game development scene can continue to grow, supported by international publishers that recognise its potential. The Australian game industry is ripe for expansion, and with support from global publishers like Devolver and initiatives like Screen Queensland’s grants, the future looks promising.
That’s it for this one, folks! Please like, share, and comment – if you enjoyed the content – and don’t forget…
Grab my FREE ebook now and find 15 indispensable design patterns that will equip you to craft exceptional Web3 gaming experiences. I’ll also notify you when my new book on immersive design is out!