Italian Game Developer Envisions a UK-Based Studio

We had the opportunity to speak with nine Italian game development teams of various sizes during the First Playable event in Florence. The teams ranged from small, independent groups working on artistic projects to larger developers affiliated with major companies like Ubisoft and Embracer. Stormind, however, stands out as it is a mid-sized game developer with 110 employees, operating independently without external ownership. The company's CEO, Antonio Cannata, expressed pride in this aspect, stating that their independence has allowed them to maintain creative control. Stormind recently released Batora: Lost Haven in collaboration with Team17 and is now working on new projects, including cooperation with major IP holders and original titles. Cannata emphasized the importance of retaining independence, citing the potential for growth and self-expression. He noted that the company's founders are the current shareholders, allowing them to make decisions without external pressure. The goal for Stormind is to establish a successful and sustainable game development company, focusing on creating multiple titles simultaneously rather than a single game. Cannata believes that Stormind can serve as an example for other Italian developers, demonstrating the potential for independent growth and success. He stressed that this approach is not meant to criticize other businesses but rather to highlight the importance of independence in the Italian game development industry. Cannata expressed his ambition to create something iconic using the company's own resources, showcasing an Italian approach to game development while maintaining an international perspective. He hopes that companies like Stormind can attract Italian talent working abroad to return and contribute to the growth of the domestic game development industry. Cannata emphasized the need to create an environment that encourages talent to stay in Italy, rather than seeking opportunities abroad. He believes that the growth of the Italian game development industry will depend on a combination of factors, including cultural appeal and government support. While tax breaks and foreign investment are important, Cannata stressed the need for Italian success stories and independent developers to drive the industry forward. He envisions a future where Italian game companies can expand internationally, establishing studios in countries like the UK or Spain, and promoting the Italian approach to game development globally.