emerging
Right-Sizing Single-Player Games
Developers are exploring shorter single-player games as a response to rising development costs and changing player habits.
Timeframe
near-term
Categories
Subcategories
Impact areas
Detailed Analysis
The increasing cost of game development is forcing studios to reconsider the traditional model of lengthy single-player experiences. While longer games were once seen as a key selling point, the current market demands a more sustainable approach. "Over the last three decades, games have grown longer and longer to meet player demand…However, current market conditions are making the business case for longer games less and less viable."
Context Signals
Rising development costs
Declining average global playtime
Increased competition in the games market
Edge
Shorter, more focused single-player games could lead to a resurgence of innovative gameplay mechanics and storytelling.
Episodic releases or expandable game models could offer a balance between shorter initial experiences and the potential for longer-term engagement.
