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ProbablyMonsters announces first games after strategy shift

ProbablyMonsters has unveiled its first two games, shifting focus from AAA titles to smaller, quicker releases.

August 5, 2025 at 01:00 PM
blur "We've had to evolve." The long-awaited first games from ProbablyMonsters indicate a surprise change of tack

ProbablyMonsters unveils its first games, pivoting its strategy in a changing gaming landscape.

ProbablyMonsters shifts strategy to adapt to gaming market changes

ProbablyMonsters, founded by former Bungie CEO Harold Ryan, has revealed its first two games after a significant shift in strategy. Initially conceived as a studio aimed at AAA game development, the company has now embraced a different model, focusing on smaller, quicker game releases that align better with the current market dynamics. This change comes after challenges faced by Firewalk Studios, which previously operated under the same model and ultimately failed. The new approach emphasizes launching multiple titles each year, including Storm Lancers and Ire: A Prologue, as the studio seeks to adapt to an industry evolving away from traditional AAA projects.

Key Takeaways

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ProbablyMonsters now prioritizes smaller games to reduce risk.
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The studio has pivoted away from AAA titles after market challenges.
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Storm Lancers and Ire: A Prologue exemplify the new approach.
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Focus will be on regular game releases, not just big launches.
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Ryan emphasizes sustainable practices in game development.
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The gaming landscape requires adaptability and flexibility in strategy.

"The market evolved – and we had to step back and figure out how to evolve."

Harold Ryan reflects on the need for change in company strategy to adapt to market demands.

"It’s about sizing the investment to the audience in order to be sustainable."

Ryan emphasizes the importance of matching game development investments to market realities.

"You want to pick a player experience and then build the game that delivers that experience."

Ryan explains the tailored approach to creating games based on player experience.

"We've stumbled a bit. We have some things to learn."

Acknowledging past failures, Ryan expresses the studio's commitment to improvement.

The transformation at ProbablyMonsters underscores a larger trend in the gaming industry where the pressures of high costs and the dominance of free-to-play models are forcing studios to rethink their strategies. Moving away from a focus on ambitious AAA titles may signal a survival tactic in a marketplace saturated with established franchises. Ryan’s acknowledgment of the need for smaller, targeted investments reflects a broader industry realization that consumer preferences are shifting, valuing both quality and accessibility over sheer scale. The commentary around sustainability also indicates a growing hunger for a healthier work environment for developers in a notoriously demanding industry.

Highlights

  • Smaller games can lead to bigger impacts in today’s market.
  • The aim is sustainable success, not just blockbuster releases.
  • Adapting to industry change is crucial for survival.
  • A focus on audience needs over genre trends is key.

Industry risks tied to gaming strategy

ProbablyMonsters faces challenges related to investment and market adaptability as it moves away from AAA titles, risking backlash if new strategies fail.

As the gaming industry evolves, ProbablyMonsters aims to find a sustainable path forward.

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