Stéphane D'Astous Joins Iwot Games to Develop The Wheel of Time RPG, Bringing Hope and Optimism to the Industry

Iwot Games, a subsidiary of Iwot Studios, has appointed Stéphane D'Astous as its director of studio operations to lead the development of an upcoming open-world RPG based on The Wheel of Time universe. The studio aims to grow to 200-300 employees in Montreal over the coming years. D'Astous, with his extensive experience in founding and managing studios, including Eidos Montreal and Square Enix Montreal, will oversee the recruitment of a core team of 12-15 developers, including a director of art, tech, and design. The studio is expected to reach a team size of 30-50 people within the next twelve months, with a focus on the concept phase. At maturity, the team is anticipated to grow to between 200 and 300 people. D'Astous expressed his excitement about the project, citing the rich and detailed world of The Wheel of Time, with its complex characters and deep history. He also highlighted the importance of getting the game right, given the established fan base and the pressure to deliver a high-quality experience. The Wheel of Time books have sold over 100 million copies, and the Prime Show has just released its third season, demonstrating the franchise's enduring popularity. D'Astous believes that his bosses, Rick and Larry, have a deep understanding of the franchise's value and are committed to taking the time necessary to create a top-notch game. He also noted that the current game development landscape in Montreal is more balanced, with fewer studios opening or growing, allowing Iwot Games to pick the right people for the project. D'Astous's passion for the project is evident, and he sees this as an opportunity to bring hope and optimism to the industry, which is facing challenging times. With his experience and the support of his team, D'Astous is confident that Iwot Games can create a exceptional gaming experience that will meet the expectations of fans and gamers alike.