Osama Dorias: The Fragile Progress in Combating Crunch Time

In a recent conversation, Osama Dorias, a lead gameplay designer at Brass Lion Entertainment, shared his thoughts on the gaming industry's progress in tackling burnout and mental health. As someone who has personally experienced burnout, Dorias has become a prominent voice on the topic, and his insights offer a unique perspective on the industry's efforts to create a healthier work environment. According to Dorias, the industry has made significant strides in recent years, with many companies recognizing the importance of work-life balance and implementing support systems to prevent burnout. However, he also notes that some companies are reverting to old habits, particularly during times of uncertainty and economic downturn. Dorias attributes this backsliding to the fact that some companies are using the current economic climate as an excuse to push employees to work longer hours, often under the guise of "doing their part" to help the company stay afloat. This approach, he argues, is not only misguided but also counterproductive, as it can lead to burnout and decreased productivity in the long run. Despite these challenges, Dorias remains optimistic about the industry's progress, citing examples of companies that have successfully implemented policies like four-day workweeks and flexible working hours. He also notes that developers are becoming more vocal about their concerns and are pushing back against the culture of crunch time, which has long been a staple of the gaming industry. However, Dorias also acknowledges that there is still much work to be done, particularly when it comes to supporting junior developers who often have limited leverage and few options. He argues that companies must take a systemic approach to addressing burnout, recognizing that it is not just a personal issue but also a business imperative. By prioritizing employee well-being and creating a healthy work environment, companies can reap significant benefits, including increased productivity, better work quality, and improved employee retention. As Dorias puts it, "You'll get more out of them, not more hours, but better work."