Gaming is often dominated by trends and fads but these can also become mainstays of the industry. Perhaps that’s why we tend to pay attention to things that pop up out of nowhere more than most industries: We know that today’s indie darling can become tomorrow’s billion-dollar Mojang-buyout by Microsoft.
Fall Guys is the latest sensation to sweep over the gaming world and it is for a pretty darn good reason. Yet, aside from having a fairly iconic design like Minecraft, what else does Fall Guys have going for it? Aside from being a really good game, it is also an indie title that is swinging with the power of a triple-A release.
The implications of that for the future of video game development are actually quite huge, as is the drive to bring more and more casual gamers into the fold.
Co-founder and chief games officer of Mediatonic Paul Croft told financial network CNBC, “I think success on this scale is inherently unpredictable and not something you can truly plan for — it’s been quite surreal. But it’s been amazing to see so many people playing and enjoying the game across the world.”
And let’s not forget the game’s universal appeal. We can’t really discount that factor when examining its popularity. While gaming, in general, is enjoying a bumper year in terms of revenue, games like Fall Guys might signal a new paradigm in how people interact with one another in a family unit.
“Fall Guys has really flourished in this environment because, at its core, it is a simple, family-friendly game. Unlike traditional, violent battle royale titles, Fall Guys appeals to all ages, and is approved by parents,” said Louise Shorthouse, industry analyst at Omdia.
It’s kind of like the Nintendo magic but from an indie title.
Shorthouse continued, “I think Fall Guys could have great longevity, but it depends heavily on the content pipeline. “If the developers can continue to release engaging content that streamers like to stream and viewers like to watch, Fall Guys could be in it for the long-term.”
Part of the reason for this is that the game can go through iterative updates and changes as well as introduce new content through seasons and DLC. Using this model, there’s no telling when Fall Guys will fall off. For now, it looks like the gaming world has yet another title to latch on to as the latest pop culture craze. Whether this is the next Minecraft or the next Rock Band remains as a question for the future or tarot to answer.
What do you think of Fall Guys? Have you had a chance to play it yet? Let us know your thoughts on this story in the comments section below if you like.
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