Josef Fares Takes On Gaming's Risk Aversion: Why Diversity Is The Future, Not A Bet

TL;DR: Josef Fares, director at Split Fiction, is advocating for greater publishing diversity in the gaming industry, challenging the conventional wisdom that risk aversion should dictate what games get made. He argues that an overreliance on proven formulas stifles innovation and ultimately harms the industry by limiting creative output and player choice.

What's New

In a recent discussion, Josef Fares, the visionary director behind Split Fiction and known for his work on titles like It Takes Two and A Way Out, has once again stirred the pot, this time focusing his sharp critique on the publishing landscape of the gaming industry. Fares, who is currently working on Clair Obscur, didn't hold back in his assessment of how major publishers, including giants like EA, approach game development and distribution. His core argument centers on the industry's pervasive risk aversion. Publishers, he contends, tend to gravitate towards projects that feel 'safe' – often sequels, established IPs, or games that mimic past successes. This cautious approach, while understandable from a business perspective aimed at minimizing financial exposure, inadvertently creates a monoculture of games. Fares argues this strategy stifles true innovation and limits the potential for unique, boundary-pushing experiences that might not fit neatly into a predefined market segment. He also touched upon the emerging role of Generative AI (Gen AI), implying it could either exacerbate this trend towards homogenization if used merely to replicate existing styles, or, if leveraged creatively, could open new avenues for diverse content. His comments signal a renewed call for publishers to be bolder, to invest in novel ideas, and to trust developers with unique visions, rather than solely backing projects that feel like a guaranteed return.

Why It Matters

Fares's insights are particularly pertinent in today's gaming ecosystem, where development costs are skyrocketing, and the pressure to deliver blockbuster hits is immense. When publishers prioritize minimizing risk above all else, the industry as a whole suffers from a lack of creative vitality. This isn't just about developers having their passion projects greenlit; it's about the entire player base missing out on potentially groundbreaking games that never see the light of day. An environment where only 'safe bets' are funded leads to a repetitive market, where innovation becomes a rare commodity rather than a driving force. This can lead to player fatigue and a stagnant creative environment. Fares's argument for publishing diversity isn't merely an artistic plea; it's a strategic one. He suggests that by diversifying their portfolios, publishers could actually tap into new markets and player demographics that are underserved by the current AAA landscape. While a 'safe bet' might guarantee a certain level of sales, a truly innovative and diverse title, if successful, can capture cultural zeitgeist and establish new genres or playstyles, ultimately enriching the entire industry. His past successes, particularly with co-op focused games, demonstrate that unique concepts, when executed well, can find massive audiences and critical acclaim, challenging the very notion of what constitutes a 'safe' game.

What This Means For You

For gamers, Fares's call for diversity promises a more exciting and varied future. Imagine a landscape where the next big hit isn't just a sequel to a familiar franchise, but an entirely new experience that challenges conventions and offers fresh perspectives. This could mean more unique narratives, innovative gameplay mechanics, and a broader range of artistic styles across the games you play. For aspiring game developers, Fares's stance offers a glimmer of hope. It's a reminder that truly original ideas still have a champion, and that the fight for creative freedom within the industry is ongoing. While the realities of funding remain challenging, voices like Fares's help to shift the conversation, pushing publishers to reconsider their long-term strategies. It encourages a future where creativity is not seen as a liability but as the ultimate asset. Ultimately, a more diverse publishing landscape means a healthier, more vibrant gaming industry for everyone involved, from the creators pouring their hearts into new worlds to the players eager to explore them. It's about betting on talent and vision, not just on algorithms and past performance.