Is Gaming Over in Russia? Domestic Developers on the Future of Russian Game Development

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In 2021, Russia produced a number of games that received international acclaim. Loop Hero earned high marks from Western players and journalists for its immersive gameplay. Black Book surprised with its deep storyline and elaborate lore based on the folklore of the Perm region. The tactical RPG King's Bounty 2 brought a beloved series back to life, earning positive reviews from fans. Particularly noteworthy is Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous from Moscow-based studio Owlcat, which created an RPG comparable in quality to projects from giants like BioWare and Obsidian. These games not only strengthened the position of Russian game development but also demonstrated a high level of creativity and skill among developers.

By the beginning of 2022, there was a general consensus in the Russian gaming industry that recent releases were just the beginning. Even more exciting projects are expected in the future, such as Atomic Heart, Mother of All Secrets, Selfloss, Black Skylands, Knock on the Coffin Lid, Torn Away, and Stoneshard. These games represent only a small portion of what is currently being developed in Russia. Russian developers continue to actively work on new concepts and ideas, confirming the growing potential of the domestic gaming industry.

Recent events in Ukraine have seriously impacted the development of the Russian gaming industry. The Steam platform suspended payments to Russian developers, creating significant difficulties for creators who are unable to pay for the necessary software for developing their projects. Furthermore, a number of foreign gaming studios and publishers have announced the cessation of their operations in the Russian market, limiting opportunities for local developers and reducing access to international resources. These circumstances threaten the future of the Russian gaming industry and require a search for new avenues for its development.

The editorial team of Skillbox Media's Gamedev conducted a survey of Russian developers to determine the risks and consequences facing the Russian gaming industry in the current climate. We also explore the opportunities opening up for video game creators amidst the current changes in game development.

Co-founder of Four Quarters studio and one of the creators of the game Loop Hero. Four Quarters Studio is known for its unique projects in the gaming industry, and Loop Hero has become one of the most popular indie games, acclaimed for its innovative mechanics and engaging gameplay.

Discussing the current situation in indie games is difficult, as the process is still ongoing. The outlook looks extremely bleak. At this time, indie developers face significant challenges and difficulties. Current conditions put significant pressure on small studios, which are unable to compete with major market players. This time requires indie developers to be creative and adaptive to survive and continue creating unique projects.

The situation in Russia is currently characterized as an unfavorable business environment. Economic uncertainty could last for several months or many years. Predicting future developments is difficult, and this realization concerns not only experts but also the general public. History shows that sanctions are imposed quickly, but the process of lifting them is often delayed and fraught with difficulties. The gaming industry is particularly vulnerable to the risks associated with economic and cultural isolation, which poses significant challenges for developers. In the face of such challenges, it is necessary to find new ways to adapt and develop.

The future is difficult to predict, but a trend toward distancing oneself from government decisions and the associated consequences is already evident. Companies are beginning to shift development, as well as developers themselves, to other countries. This allows them to establish law firms in lower-risk jurisdictions, which contributes to a more stable business environment. This approach ensures asset protection and minimizes potential threats, which is becoming an important factor for companies striving for sustainable development in the international arena.

The situation in the domestic industry leaves much to be desired. Current events are negatively impacting the development and stability of the industry, creating numerous problems for producers and consumers. Lack of investment and legislative changes only exacerbate existing difficulties. It is important to find ways to improve and adapt to the new conditions to maintain competitiveness and ensure further growth.

All our plans changed overnight. How to adapt to new living and working conditions is not yet entirely clear, but we are confident that we will find a solution. It is important to remain flexible and open to new opportunities to overcome difficulties and find effective ways to achieve our goals.

Co-founder of Four Quarters studio and one of the authors of the popular game Loop Hero. Four Quarters Studio is known for its unique approach to game development, combining original gameplay with stylish visuals. Loop Hero has become a landmark title, captivating players with its innovative mechanics and engaging gameplay.

Discussing the current state of the indie gaming industry is difficult, especially when the situation remains volatile. The outlook for indie games looks extremely bleak. In recent months, we have seen independent developers facing serious difficulties, threatening their projects and financial stability. These current challenges require indie developers to adapt and innovate to survive in a highly competitive and changing market.

The current situation in Russia is characterized as an "unfavorable business environment." This context could change in a month or in two decades, and precise predictions are impossible. The history of other countries shows that sanctions are imposed quickly, but their lifting is often delayed and difficult. The gaming industry is particularly vulnerable to economic and cultural isolation, which seriously harms developers in this field. Amid such changes, it is important to consider how these factors may impact the future of domestic game development and adapt to these new realities.

It is difficult to predict future developments. However, a clear trend toward distancing oneself from certain government decisions and their consequences is already evident. Companies are beginning to relocate developments and employees to other countries, establishing law firms there. This allows them to conduct business in regions with lower risks. This approach helps reduce uncertainty and increase business resilience in a volatile political and economic environment.

The current situation is not positive for the domestic industry. Economic difficulties, market changes, and other negative factors are having a significant impact on business development. In these conditions, it is important to seek new approaches and strategies to adapt to the challenges of the times and maintain competitiveness.

All our plans changed overnight. How to adapt to the new living and working conditions is still unclear, but we are confident that we will find solutions.

Founder of Morteshka Studio and author of Black Book. Morteshka Studio is known for its unique projects in design and art, and Black Book has become a landmark work in this field.

Given current events, the future of the Russian gaming industry appears uncertain due to difficulties in collaborating with international partners. We continue our operations, but we are already facing serious challenges, such as the inability to pay for software licenses. In the coming months, we will be focusing on restoring operations and finding alternative payment methods for essential services used in our industry.

Leading gaming market analyst at Nexters Boost. Specializing in trend analysis, user behavior research, and market opportunity assessment. An expert in the gaming industry, providing strategic recommendations based on in-depth data analysis. Supporting teams in developing successful gaming projects aimed at achieving high results and satisfying player needs. Optimizing gaming products based on current trends and audience preferences allows the company to remain competitive in the market.

The Russian gaming industry will continue to grow rapidly, but a significant portion of this development will occur outside the country. Operating within the domestic market is impractical, as it limits profit potential to 99%. Gaming companies will focus on international markets, which will allow them to expand their audience and increase revenue.

Our international company continues its operations, striving to create and develop games that unite players from all over the world. We are not tied to a specific geographic location, which allows us to effectively adapt to changing conditions. We continue to work without stopping in the face of challenges and promptly resolve all emerging issues related to our Russian players. Our mission is to ensure an accessible and high-quality gaming experience for all users, regardless of their location.

Providing an accurate forecast is impossible, as even the most experienced analyst cannot predict the impact of geopolitical events on the global economy. Geopolitics plays a key role in shaping economic trends and market conditions, making forecasts in this area extremely difficult. However, it is important to closely monitor changes in international politics, as they can significantly impact economic indicators and investor sentiment.

The recommendation is to either leave the jurisdiction of the Russian Federation or adapt to the new legal conditions. In both cases, developers will face stress and certain difficulties, which they should be prepared for by putting game development on the back burner. It is important to first define the strategic goal of your development and activities, and then develop an action plan to achieve it.

The founder of Morteshka Studio and the author of Black Book, a well-known project in the world of art and design, actively influences the development of the creative industry. Morteshka Studio has established itself as a leading visual storytelling company, creating unique projects that engage and inspire audiences. Black Book, in turn, is an essential resource for professionals looking to deepen their knowledge and skills in creativity and design.

The future of the Russian gaming industry appears uncertain given current events, as interactions with international partners have become difficult. Despite this, we continue our operations, but are already facing serious challenges, such as the inability to pay for licenses for the necessary software. In the coming months, we plan to restore full operations and find alternative payment methods for various services that are important to our industry.

The leading gaming market analyst at Nexters Boost is responsible for in-depth analysis and research of trends in the video game industry. This role involves collecting and processing data, as well as providing analytical reports that help shape the company's development strategy. This specialist studies player behavior, analyzes the competitive landscape, and identifies new growth opportunities. A key part of this role is the use of modern analytical tools, which allows Nexters Boost to remain at the forefront of the gaming industry.

The active development of the domestic gaming industry will continue to gain momentum, but the primary focus will be on international markets. Continuing to operate exclusively in the domestic market is impractical, as this limits profit potential, cutting off up to 99% of potential revenue. Investing in international projects and collaborating with foreign partners will be key to the successful growth and competitiveness of Russian game developers.

Our international company continues its operations, striving to create and develop games that unite players from all over the world. We are not limited by geographic boundaries and continue to operate globally. Our team is actively addressing emerging issues related to Russian players, ensuring uninterrupted access to our products and services. We believe that games can bring people together, and we continue to develop innovative solutions for a comfortable gaming experience.

Predicting the impact of geopolitical events on the global economy is impossible, as it requires an in-depth analysis of numerous factors. Even the most experienced analysts face difficulties in this area. Changes in the political environment can have a significant impact on economic indicators, but accurately predicting the consequences is difficult. Therefore, any attempts to make a forecast can only be assumptions based on current trends and events.

I recommend considering two main options: either leaving the jurisdiction of the Russian Federation or adapting to the new conditions existing within the country. In both cases, developers can expect significant stress and difficulties, and it is worth preparing for this by temporarily postponing game development. It is important to first define the strategic goal of your development and work, and then develop a detailed action plan to achieve it.

The game designer and head of the Masterskaya 15 studio is a key figure in video game development. His work involves creating unique game concepts and managing a team of professionals, enabling him to realize ambitious projects. Masterskaya 15 Studio is known for its innovations in game design and high-quality games that gain popularity among players. The game designer's experience and creativity contribute to the creation of engaging gameplay and interesting stories, making the studio a prominent player in the video game market.

The Russian gaming industry has lost 95% of its market share, which has had serious consequences for many companies. As a result, many organizations are faced with a choice: leaving the industry or moving abroad. I have chosen the latter path and continue to develop my studio in Georgia, which allows me to remain active and adapt to new conditions.

Aspiring developers planning to enter the market face two main strategies. First, they can explore new and promising niches emerging in the Russian market. Secondly, some are considering concealing their Russian origins, seeking to position themselves as international companies. Both approaches have their advantages and require careful market and target audience assessment for successful implementation. Any crisis closes many opportunities, but simultaneously opens new ones. The Russian gaming industry already faced a crisis in 2007-2008, when many studios and publishers closed. This period was a test for many, but it also fostered the emergence of new ideas and talent. It is important to understand that a crisis can serve as an impetus for rethinking strategies and exploring new paths of development. Every challenge opens the door to innovation and new projects, allowing the industry to adapt and grow despite the difficulties.

PR and branding at 1C Entertainment

PR and brand management play a key role in the success of 1C Entertainment. Professionals in this field are responsible for creating and maintaining a positive brand image, as well as strategically promoting products on the market. Particular attention is paid to creating and managing communications with the target audience, which effectively conveys the company's values ​​and unique offerings.

Effective PR strategies help 1C Entertainment not only attract attention to new projects but also build trust with existing customers. Brand managers analyze the market, identify audience needs, and develop events that enhance brand awareness. Using modern technologies and media formats allows the company to remain relevant and effectively engage with fans.

An important aspect of PR managers' work is creating content that resonates with the target audience. Regular press releases, media publications, and participation in events help build a positive image for 1C Entertainment and maintain interest in its products. Thus, PR and branding are integral parts of a company's successful strategy in a competitive market.

At the moment, we have no questions, and we continue to operate as usual. We are actively updating and improving King's Bounty 2, as well as developing other projects. Will current events affect our future activities? Perhaps, if the situation does not improve, but it is too early to say. As for industry growth, certain questions arise due to the departure of many companies from the market. Nevertheless, we remain hopeful of their return. This may not happen now, but in six months or a year, and during this time, our industry will not slide into the "Stone Age." We are confident that we will continue to evolve and adapt to change.

We can only hope that the current situation will resolve itself soon. Predictions are not always accurate, so we can only observe and make assumptions, given that the world is changing at an incredible speed. What was relevant yesterday may no longer be relevant today. Therefore, I can't offer specific advice, as each case is unique: some have already found new work opportunities in Russia, while others have decided to move to another country. It's important to reassess your prospects, consider your possible future, and determine what's truly important to you. Don't make decisions in a panic; It is better to approach the issue with a cool head and carefully evaluate all the options.

Game designer and head of the studio "Masterskaya 15" is a professional engaged in the development and creation of video games. His responsibilities include not only the conceptual design of game mechanics but also managing the team working on the implementation of game projects. Studio "Masterskaya 15" is known for its innovative approaches to game design and high-quality products that resonate with players. Under the guidance of a game designer, the team creates unique game worlds, develops engaging stories, and thinks through every detail to provide users with an unforgettable gaming experience.

The Russian gaming industry has faced serious difficulties, having lost 95% of its market. This significant reduction is leading to many companies being forced to leave not only the industry but also the country. I have decided to move and continue to develop my studio in Georgia, where there are opportunities for growth and collaboration in the game development industry.

Aspiring developers considering entering the market are either exploring new niches emerging in the Russian market or looking for ways to conceal their Russian origins in order to operate as an international company. It's important to understand that successfully entering the market requires not only analyzing current trends but also developing a strategy that will help you stand out from the competition and attract your target audience. Defining a unique value proposition and leveraging modern technologies will help developers successfully adapt to changing conditions and become competitive on the international stage.

Crises certainly close many opportunities, but they also open new horizons. The Russian gaming industry already experienced a serious crisis in 2007–2008, when many studios and publishers ceased operations. However, it was precisely during this difficult time that new companies and projects emerged that were able to adapt to the changing conditions and offer unique solutions. It is important to remember that every crisis brings a chance to reboot and renew, which contributes to the development of innovation and strengthening of market positions.

A PR manager and brand manager at 1C Entertainment are engaged in the formation and promotion of the brand image. These specialists develop and implement strategies to increase awareness of the company and its products, and manage communications with the audience. They work to create a positive brand perception by interacting with the media, organizing events, and using social media. A key part of their work is analyzing the market and competitive environment, which allows them to adapt marketing strategies and effectively attract the target audience. PR and brand management at 1C Entertainment are aimed at strengthening the company's position in the industry and building long-term relationships with clients. Currently, there are no issues, and we continue to work as usual, focusing on updating and improving King's Bounty 2, as well as other projects. Will the current situation affect us in the future? Perhaps, if negative trends persist, but it is premature to draw any conclusions in the first month. As for the overall state of the gaming industry, there are indeed reasons for concern, especially in light of the departure of a number of companies from the market. Nevertheless, we remain hopeful of their return, perhaps not in the near future, but in six months or a year. During this time, the industry will be able to avoid regression and continue to develop.

There is only one hope: that the current situation will change soon. Predictions are a noble business, and we can only observe and make assumptions, because the world is changing rapidly. What was relevant yesterday may lose its relevance today. Therefore, it is difficult to give specific recommendations, as everyone has their own unique experience: some have already found opportunities to work in Russia, while others have moved to another country. It is important to reassess your prospects, think about the future, and determine what truly matters to you. Don't act in panic; it is better to approach the issue deliberately and consciously.

The lead game designer at Book Burner Games is responsible for the development and implementation of unique game concepts. His experience and creative approach contribute to the creation of exciting game worlds and engaging gameplay. A key part of the job is coordinating the development team, as well as collaborating with artists and programmers to achieve high quality standards. The lead game designer actively analyzes player feedback, which allows them to improve existing games and develop new projects that align with current trends in the gaming industry.

In the current unstable situation, it is difficult to confidently predict both positive and negative prospects. Economic and social changes require careful analysis to understand possible future scenarios.

2021 was a landmark year for the domestic gaming industry, with numerous releases based on Russian folklore. This created hope for the advancement and popularization of Russian culture beyond our borders. However, the troubling events of recent months and growing anti-Russian sentiment call into question the future of such projects. It is important to continue developing and supporting games that reflect Russia's rich cultural heritage so that they can take their rightful place on the international stage.

Many representatives of the Russian game development industry, both employees of companies with foreign legal entities and indie developers, are experiencing difficulties and doubts. The former are facing immigration issues and the stress of imposed sanctions. The latter, in turn, are finding themselves in a difficult situation: a number of major publishers have left the Russian market, making it increasingly difficult to determine the best location to establish a legal entity. This creates additional difficulties for those just starting to develop their businesses and seek reliable partners. In a climate of uncertainty, it is important to find optimal solutions to successfully adapt to changing market conditions and continue developing their projects.

The current situation on marketplaces raises serious concerns. Steam has suspended payments to developers from Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus, negatively impacting indie developers with Russian bank accounts. This measure significantly complicates the financial situation for many small studios that rely on regular payments. Instability on such platforms creates additional difficulties for developers, limiting their ability to promote and support their projects.

Licensed software and cloud storage are losing user trust. Many people are forced to use pirated versions of software to support their work. This leads to regularly downloading repositories to computers or renting servers for data storage. With rising costs and limitations on legal software, users are seeking alternative solutions for efficient work.

The situation remains complex and difficult to predict, but there's no need to despair. It's important to continue working on your projects, actively seeking partners and new opportunities. Be attentive to changes in the environment, analyze what's happening, and make informed decisions. Perseverance and a proactive approach will help you overcome challenges and achieve success.

The lead game designer at Book Burner Games is responsible for the development and implementation of game concepts, as well as for creating an engaging gaming experience. We strive to create unique and memorable games that will appeal to a wide audience. Our team consists of experienced specialists who utilize modern technologies and cutting-edge game design techniques to bring even the boldest ideas to life. Our goal is to develop games that not only entertain but also inspire players to new heights. We work to create innovative game mechanics and captivating stories that leave unforgettable impressions.

In the current volatile environment, it is difficult to make confident predictions about future prospects, both positive and negative. Analyzing the situation requires considering multiple factors that could influence developments. Uncertainty in the economic, political, and social spheres makes it difficult to adequately assess possible changes.

2021 has been a landmark year for the Russian gaming industry, with numerous releases inspired by Russian folklore. These games open new horizons for the popularization of Russian culture on the international stage. However, recent events and growing anti-Russian sentiment raise serious doubts about the future of such projects. The preservation and development of domestic gaming, focused on folklore traditions, requires special attention and support to overcome current challenges and promote Russian culture abroad.

Many representatives of Russian gaming development, including employees of companies with foreign legal entities and indie developers, are facing difficulties and doubts. The former are stressed by possible immigration and sanctions, while the latter, just starting out in business, find themselves in a difficult situation. The departure of several major publishers from the Russian market has complicated the search for information on where to register a legal entity. This creates additional difficulties for indie developers seeking reliable partners and optimal business conditions.

The situation in the gaming market is further complicated by the instability of marketplaces. The Steam platform has suspended payments to developers from Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus, which has seriously impacted indie developers with Russian bank accounts. This restriction negatively impacts the financial stability of small studios, forcing them to seek alternative ways to monetize and distribute their games. In a climate of economic uncertainty, indie developers face challenges that could hinder the development of innovative projects and reduce the diversity of content on the market.

Licensed software and cloud storage are losing trust among users. Many are forced to resort to piracy to ensure the functionality they need for their work. This leads to the need to regularly download repositories to their computers or rent servers for data storage. Understanding the risks and consequences of using illegal software is becoming critical to ensuring the security and stability of their work.

The situation remains complex and difficult to predict, but there is no need to give up or despair. It is important to continue working on your projects and actively seek partners and new opportunities. It is essential to closely monitor changes in the situation and make informed decisions based on the latest information. This will allow you to adapt to current conditions and take steps towards successful development.

The founder of Book Burner Games is a key figure in game development, specializing in the creation of unique gaming content. This studio is known for its original concepts and engaging gameplay, which allows it to stand out in the market. The founder is actively involved in the development process, inspiring the team to create high-quality and innovative projects. Book Burner Games strives to ensure that each new release brings something new and interesting to the video game industry.

A state of limbo has become a characteristic feature of the Russian gaming industry and its associated services and media. People who lived through the crises of 1998, 2008, and 2014 have become accustomed to constant turbulence. Tired of an unsettling reality, they continue to work as if teleporting back to the starting point, like in their first apartment in GTA. This experience is undoubtedly exhausting. As a result, there is a brain drain and a shortage of new specialists, which negatively impacts the development of the industry.

As our lead level designer noted, the gaming industry in Russia can be extremely unpredictable: one day you're a successful developer, the next you find yourself on the sidelines. Having lived through two of the aforementioned crises myself, I can confirm that a more accurate description of the situation is hard to find. This month, we've been actively preparing presentation materials, and just three weeks ago, we were ready to begin actively searching for strategic partners. However, unfortunately, our Western contacts vanished as quickly as if they had never existed. We are currently exploring alternative collaboration options, but narrowing our search could seriously impact the terms of deals. It's possible that some market participants will try to take advantage of the current situation, as options are currently limited. Therefore, it's crucial to be attentive to all aspects of negotiations and agreements.

In a financially challenging environment, it's crucial to avoid desperate decisions that could worsen the situation. Rushing to seek financing at any price can lead to negative consequences. It's recommended to remain calm and approach the issue with a cool head. Trying to save the studio risks doing it even more harm. Management should openly discuss the current circumstances with the team and clearly outline their options. If employees were expecting a salary increase, it's essential to honestly communicate that this will not happen. Our team understands the complexity of the situation and has taken the news of impending financial difficulties seriously. Honesty and transparency in communication with colleagues are important, so there's no need to hide the truth or embellish the facts. The most valuable thing you have in this difficult time is your team.

The founder of Book Burner Games is a key figure in the video game industry. His vision and creative approach to game development allow him to create unique and exciting projects. Book Burner Games specializes in developing original games that captivate players with their innovation and high-quality graphics. The team of professionals gathered around the founder strives to create immersive gaming experiences that leave a lasting impression on users. Book Burner Games actively develops its projects, focusing on player feedback and current trends in the gaming industry.

A state of limbo is a characteristic feature of the Russian gaming industry and related sectors, such as services and media. Those who survived the crises of 1998, 2008, and 2014 have become accustomed to constant turbulence. Tired of disturbing news, they continue their work as if returning to the starting point, like their first apartment in GTA. This creates not only a brain drain but also a shortage of new specialists in the industry. In a climate of uncertainty, it's crucial to seek stable solutions and attract fresh talent to support the development of the Russian gaming industry.

As our lead level designer noted, the Russian gaming industry is often an unpredictable reality: one day you're a successful developer, the next you're in a difficult situation. As an entertainment industry professional, I've already lived through two of the three crises, so I can confirm this is true. This month, we've been preparing presentation materials, and just three weeks ago, we were at the start of our pre-market launch, searching for strategic partners. However, unfortunately, all our Western contacts fell apart in a matter of minutes. We continue to seek alternative options, but narrowing the pool of potential partners could significantly impact the terms of the deal. There's a possibility that someone will try to take advantage of this situation, as the options are currently limited. Therefore, we must be especially attentive to every detail in our agreements.

The rush to find funding at any cost can lead to negative consequences, so it's important to remain calm and take your time, no matter how difficult it may seem. Trying to save the studio can unintentionally harm it. Leadership's primary responsibility is to speak frankly with the team and clearly outline what is and isn't possible. If employees were expecting a salary increase, it's best to immediately state that it won't happen. Our team understands the current situation very well and has responded with due understanding to the news of impending financial difficulties. There's no point in deceiving employees or embellishing the truth. The most valuable asset you have during this difficult time is your colleagues. Open communication will help maintain trust and team cohesion, which is especially important in times of uncertainty.

Co-founder and lead game designer of ATOM Team studio, a specialist in the field of video game development, with experience in creating unique game projects. In his work, he uses modern technologies and innovative approaches, which allows him to create exciting and high-quality games. ATOM Team is known for its creative solutions and commitment to excellence, making it a prominent player in the gaming industry.

The global situation will undoubtedly impact many Russian studios, but many have already begun temporarily relocating to countries within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) to continue their operations. Large studios registered in Cyprus or other EU countries have additional opportunities to ensure stability and adapt to the new conditions. This allows them not only to maintain their workflows but also to seek new markets for their services.

Classic indie teams, consisting of a small number of developers, have found themselves in a difficult situation due to the current economic climate. These studios typically rely on revenue from game sales on Steam and other platforms, which are deposited into cards and accounts at Russian banks. Despite the difficulties, this category of developers is distinguished by high creativity and idealism. Even if the current situation lasts another 2-3 months, I am confident that indie studios will be able to adapt and continue to support independent game development at a high level. Their capacity for innovation and drive for self-expression will help them overcome temporary difficulties and preserve their ideas.

Some of our team is made up of Ukrainian citizens, and following the events of February 24th, it was very difficult for us to continue our work. However, once our colleagues were able to find a safer environment, we resumed development of the Trudograd update. Although the project deadlines have changed, the safety of our friends and colleagues remains our priority.

Every true game developer, especially indie ones, always lives in hope. It's important to maintain this hope right now, and I wish all Russian studios faith in their abilities. Games are meant to bring people together, and I hope this mission continues into the future. Personally, I encourage everyone to continue creating high-quality games, striving for their success, and thus developing our gaming industry. Each game is a step towards improving and strengthening the gaming community.

The author of the game "Endless Summer" and the founder of the Soviet Games studio, which created unique projects in the visual novel genre, continues to attract the attention of gaming fans. His works are characterized by deep storytelling and an original style, making them popular among gamers. Soviet Games studio actively develops its ideas and strives to create new, captivating gaming worlds, leaving a lasting mark on the industry.

The situation in the gaming industry should not be considered in isolation from the overall picture of the domestic IT industry and the Russian economy as a whole. For many years, various sectors of our economy, including IT, have served both the domestic market and exported both raw materials and intellectual resources. In light of recent events, it has become clear that we are facing shortages of vital goods such as processors and medications. In this context, discussing the problems of the gaming industry seems somewhat inappropriate. However, it is important to remember that we are all in the same situation, even if this may come as a surprise to some. By pooling our efforts across the economy, we will be able to overcome current challenges and develop all sectors, including the gaming industry, which also has enormous potential for growth and innovation. For decades, the gaming industry has focused on the Western market, ignoring domestic needs. Creating match-3 games for the App Store and selling them in the US has proven to be a simpler and more profitable endeavor. It came as a surprise to many when services like Steam began refusing to accept payments from Russian users, and some companies even effectively pocketed our money. This clearly demonstrates that the phrase "Sports is above politics"—in the context of esports in particular—is a hypocritical statement that can easily change its meaning depending on the circumstances. The causes of current events are rooted in deeper aspects of human nature. Despite decades of technological progress and the development of the internet, basic human instincts remain unchanged. We continue to see conflicts familiar to us from history: nations against nations, ideologies against ideologies, faiths against faiths. In my view, we face not only a crisis but also significant challenges in our digital future, saturated with cloud services and NFTs. It is important to recognize that technological advances cannot eliminate deep-seated human contradictions, and this is precisely what could cause serious challenges for society in the coming years.

The question of how much Russia's isolation has affected people on the other side of the network cable remains open. I have serious doubts about this. In many markets, Russia's isolation has not resulted in significant losses for companies. This leads us to an important conclusion: in the eyes of these countries, Russia is not viewed as an equal partner, but rather as a source of cheap labor.

Remote programmers often choose Western companies offering $20 an hour over Russian offers with a salary of 30,000 rubles a month. However, this does not change the fact that the future is in our hands. Although we cannot follow the Chinese path due to significant differences in mentality, the example of China and other countries demonstrates that alternative development paths exist. Creating high-quality products will always be in demand, both in the domestic and international markets. It's important to focus on innovation and high service to attract customers and ensure sustainable growth.

Forecasting in politics and economics remains complex for me, and I can't offer specific predictions. However, if we consider this issue, it's safe to assume that the immediate lifting of all restrictive measures could return the domestic game development industry to its previous working methods, as if nothing had changed. Otherwise, the industry will have to adapt to the new conditions, which will likely lead to the emergence of high-quality domestic games, rather than simply mobile apps aimed at extracting money from audiences. We can also expect the development of new online content distribution services, which, if necessary, can be legally protected.

Some developers interviewed by the editorial team of Skillbox Media's "GameDev" are unwilling to comment on the current situation and prefer to wait until it resolves before drawing conclusions. For example, Konstantin Koshutin, creator of the game HighFleet, suggested waiting until the crisis is over for further analysis. Representatives of Owlcat Games took a similar position.

Author of the game "Endless Summer" and founder of the studio Soviet Games. This game has become iconic for many players thanks to its unique atmosphere and captivating storyline. Soviet Games studio continues to develop indie games, creating projects that attract attention thanks to their originality and quality. Interest in the work of the author and his studio remains undiminished, underscoring the importance of their contribution to the video game industry.

The situation with the gaming industry should not be considered in isolation from the overall picture of the domestic IT industry and the Russian economy. For many years, various industries relied on exports, including not only resource-based but also intellectual goods. Current events have revealed that we are under-producing key products such as processors and medications. Discussing the problems of the gaming industry amid the shortage of vital medications seems inappropriate. However, we are all in the same situation, and for some, this has come as a surprise. It's important to understand that the development of the gaming industry also impacts the economy as a whole, and efforts to restore and support it should be part of a broader strategy for growth and self-sufficiency.

For decades, the gaming industry has focused on the West, ignoring the domestic market. Creating match-3 games for the App Store and selling them in America is proving to be an easier and more profitable option for developers. Recent events, such as services including Steam refusing to accept payments from Russian users and cases where money was simply stolen, have come as a surprise to many. This shows that the assertion that "Sport is outside politics" in the context of esports is hypocritical. It is important to understand that this position is subject to change depending on the circumstances. Developing games for the domestic market requires a deeper understanding of audience needs and a willingness to adapt to a changing political and economic environment.

The essence of what is happening is that, despite several decades of technological progress and the development of the internet, human nature has remained unchanged. We continue to witness conflicts familiar to us from history: wars between nations, clashes of ideologies, and religious disputes. In my view, we face a serious test that, if not catastrophic, will cause significant damage to our digital world, saturated with cloud services and NFTs.

The impact of sanctions on those on the other side of the network cable raises serious doubts in my mind. In many markets, Russia's isolation has not resulted in significant losses for companies. This suggests that we are not seen as equal partners—at best, we are viewed merely as a cheap labor resource.

Understanding the preferences of programmers who choose remote work for $20 an hour for Western companies over offers of 30,000 rubles a month from Russian employers is entirely justified. However, this does not change the fact that our future depends only on us. We can't follow the Chinese path due to significant differences in mentality, but the experience of China and a number of other countries clearly demonstrates the existence of alternatives. The most important thing is creating high-quality products, as there will always be demand for them, including on the international market. By developing our skills and offering innovative solutions, we can not only improve our own position but also contribute to the development of the domestic IT industry.

I won't make any predictions about the future of game development, as I lack sufficient expertise in the political and economic issues that currently play a decisive role. However, considering this topic, it is possible that if all restrictive measures are lifted immediately, the domestic game development industry may return to its usual working methods, as if nothing had happened. Otherwise, developers will have to adapt to the new conditions, and we will likely see the creation of high-quality domestic games, not just mobile apps aimed at generating revenue from the audience. This may also lead to the emergence of new online content distribution services that will provide legal opportunities to protect the rights of developers.