The Unintentional Success of Monument Valley

As Ustwo Games celebrates the tenth anniversary of its breakout hit, Monument Valley, the company's chief creative officer, Danny Gray, reflects on the game's enduring success. The title's unique blend of art direction, narrative design, and minimalism has captivated audiences, but it is the game's main mechanic that truly sets it apart. Gray notes that the team spent ten years trying to recreate the magic of Monument Valley, but it was the accidental discovery of the game's optical illusion puzzles that proved to be the key to its success. The game's development was a collaborative effort, with Gray joining the team in 2013. The company operates with a hybrid model, allowing staff to work flexibly and prioritize their well-being. This approach has contributed to the team's low turnover rate and enabled them to focus on creating high-quality games. Monument Valley's success can be attributed to its unique hook, but also to the fact that it was released at the right time, when the App Store was still in its early stages and innovation could rise to the top. Gray believes that the game's success is multifaceted and cannot be replicated by simply following a formula. He notes that the team's approach to game development is centered around creating a beautiful escape for players, rather than focusing solely on profit. The rise of subscription services such as Netflix and Apple Arcade has changed the way games are consumed, and Gray sees this as an opportunity for premium games like Monument Valley to thrive. Ustwo's approach to game development is focused on creating a sustainable and balanced business model that prioritizes the well-being of its staff. The company has implemented a profit-sharing system and offers benefits such as paternity leave. Gray believes that this approach has contributed to the company's steady growth and ability to produce high-quality games consistently. With the next Monument Valley game on the horizon, Gray is excited to see how the team will build upon the success of the previous titles and create something new and innovative. The company is also working on other projects, including prototypes that explore different genres and platforms. Gray is eager to share his knowledge and experience with others, and he hopes that Ustwo can serve as a role model for the industry. As the company looks to the future, Gray is confident that its commitment to creating high-quality games and prioritizing the well-being of its staff will continue to drive its success.