Relic Entertainment Aims to Accelerate Game Development

Relic Entertainment has experienced a rollercoaster ride over the past few decades, with the studio rising to fame in the late 1990s with the release of the critically acclaimed real-time strategy title Homeworld. Following its acquisition by THQ, Relic went on to produce several successful RTS games, including Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War and Company of Heroes. However, THQ's bankruptcy led to Relic being acquired by Sega in 2013. Despite this, the studio continued to develop RTS games, albeit in a more niche market. In March 2024, Sega announced its decision to sell Relic, with CEO Justin Dowdeswell stating that he was aware of the impending change as early as 2023. Dowdeswell acknowledged that the studio faced significant challenges, including the rocky launch of Company of Heroes 3 in February 2023. He attributed the game's lackluster launch to the studio's failure to meet player expectations, citing the need for more polish and a longer development period. To address these challenges, Dowdeswell has implemented a new business strategy that focuses on developing smaller-scope titles and accelerating game development. He believes that this approach will enable the studio to remain sustainable and competitive in the market. Dowdeswell also emphasized the importance of self-publishing, citing the success of the recently released definitive edition of Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War. He noted that self-publishing allows the studio to have more control over its games and to build a stronger connection with its players. In addition, Dowdeswell discussed the potential of AI in game development, stating that it can be a useful tool for augmenting existing skills and streamlining certain processes. However, he also cautioned that AI should not be relied upon as a replacement for human creativity and decision-making. Looking to the future, Dowdeswell expressed his commitment to focusing on the studio's strengths and expertise, while also exploring new areas and trends in the gaming industry. He emphasized the importance of being close to players and understanding their needs and expectations, and believes that this approach will enable Relic to thrive in a rapidly changing market. Ultimately, Dowdeswell is confident that Relic can navigate the challenges of the gaming industry and emerge as a leader in the RTS genre. With its rich history, talented team, and newfound independence, Relic is poised to make a significant impact on the gaming landscape.