In a recent panel discussion, Johan Pilestedt, the Creative Director of Helldivers 2, discussed the pressing need for developers in the gaming industry to take bold risks. He emphasized that risk aversion is a “death sentence” for studios trying to survive in today’s competitive landscape. Pilestedt highlighted that the industry suffers from a “convergence problem,” where everyone aims to replicate the same popular trends, thus neglecting diverse gaming experiences that players are willing to invest in.

During the Game Developers Conference, Pilestedt stated:

“The games industry is caught in a vicious cycle of death and rebirth. Every so often we lay off thousands of people suddenly, and no one understands why, and I think it’s just because we converge.”

He argues that if developers focus on creating unique games rather than chasing current market trends, it will lead to more sustainable success. Pilestedt noted the stark situation surrounding games chasing popular trends, warning that they often result in layoffs and studio failures.

He concluded with a strong call for innovation:

“Make your games according to your studio’s foundation and style. Don’t copy others. Think about what you want to make and take a gamble on it.”