Xalavier Nelson Jr. on Achieving Financial Success and Player Satisfaction without Sacrificing Stability

Xalavier Nelson Jr., CEO of Strange Scaffold, is navigating the concept of sustainability in the gaming industry amidst economic uncertainty. He believes that sustainability is not an idealistic notion, but rather a necessity for survival. Nelson thinks that the current state of the gaming industry has the potential to create great experiences for players without putting a strain on developers, but this opportunity is being overlooked. Instead, the industry is focused on pursuing larger profit margins, particularly in the AAA sector. Nelson argues that while big games have their place in the industry, the escalating costs and expectations are creating an environment where games are no longer allowed to be simply enjoyable, profitable, and meaningful experiences for players. He suggests that the industry should learn from past experiences and make reasonable decisions based on the current ecosystem, player desires, and advancements in accessibility technology. By doing so, Nelson believes that the industry can create profitable and enjoyable experiences for players without compromising stability. He also highlights the importance of transparency and honesty in the industry, citing Strange Scaffold's efforts to be open about its production processes and financial circumstances. Nelson notes that the industry's focus on success stories can be harmful, as it ignores the struggles and failures that are an inherent part of the development process. He also emphasizes the need to address burnout, which is a prevalent issue in the industry, and to create a more stable and supportive environment for developers.