Expert Insights: Navigating the Games Industry in 2024

As 2024 unfolds, the games industry is poised for significant changes, with experts predicting a rise in AI adoption, increased competition, and a shift towards more sustainable business models. According to StrangeScaffold's Xalavier Nelson Jr., the industry will be torn between two competing movements: the pursuit of big financial swings and the growing appetite for indie projects. This dichotomy is expected to result in increased instability and uncertainty for developers. Geogrify CEO Kate Edwards forecasts a surge in visibility for global game creations, with emerging markets and non-Western studios making greater strides in the industry. Neowiz's Seungchul Kim predicts that the Korean games sector will experience growth in AI technology adoption, mobile and console gaming, and increased engagement with game fandoms. Gameloft's Alexandre de Rochefort expects a rise in AI-powered game development, improved player experiences, and the growth of gaming subscription services. Riot Games' Jake Perlman-Garr anticipates a rocky year for the industry, with venture funding remaining muted, but private equity taking a keen interest in the sector. Brad Hendricks of Blind Squirrel Games believes that publishers will focus on risk mitigation, opting for games based on licensed IP, remasters, and re-imagined IP. Co-CEOs of Iron Galaxy Chelsea Blasko and Adam Boyes see games-as-a-platform continuing to solidify as industry standards, with examples like Roblox and Fortnite expanding to become platforms for interactive entertainment. GameDiscoverCo's Simon Carless notes that the middle of the market will continue to strive for consumer attention, with new games fighting for attention amidst a crowded market.