The Unintentional Success of Monument Valley: A Decade of Innovation

The tenth anniversary of Monument Valley's release marks a significant milestone for Ustwo Games, and Danny Gray reflects on the game's enduring success. With its unique blend of art direction, narrative design, and minimalist approach, Monument Valley has become a benchmark for premium mobile games. Gray notes that the game's main mechanic, which was initially discovered by accident, has been a key factor in its success. However, he also acknowledges that replicating this success is a difficult task, and that the company has been trying to reverse-engineer the factors that contributed to Monument Valley's popularity. The rise of subscription services such as Netflix and Apple Arcade has changed the gaming landscape, and Gray believes that these platforms can help games like Monument Valley 3 reach a wider audience. Ustwo Games has had success with subscription services in the past, with titles such as Assemble with Care and Alba: A Wildlife Adventure releasing on Apple Arcade. Gray emphasizes the importance of allowing creatives to inject personal stories and feelings into their work, which has been a key factor in Ustwo's success. The company's approach to game development is centered around sustainability, with a focus on treating staff well, investing in their growth, and prioritizing ecological values. As Ustwo looks to the future, Gray hopes to continue making great games, and believes that the company's steady growth and commitment to its values will help it navigate the ever-changing gaming industry.