Osama Dorias: The Fight Against Crunch Time in the Gaming Industry is at a Crossroads

In a recent conversation, Osama Dorias, a lead gameplay designer at Brass Lion Entertainment, shared his insights on the gaming industry's efforts to combat burnout and promote mental well-being. Having spoken at the Game Developers' Conference and preparing to address the International Games Summit on Mental Health, Dorias offers a unique perspective on the industry's progress. According to Dorias, companies that operate in competitive locations are more inclined to adopt better work-life balance and support systems to prevent burnout, as they have more to lose if their employees leave. However, the shift towards remote work during the pandemic has accelerated this process, and now, with the return to office work, some companies are reverting to old habits. Dorias attributes this reversion to the recent wave of layoffs and closures in the industry, which has led some companies to use uncertainty as an excuse to demand extra hours from their employees. He emphasizes that this approach is counterproductive and can have severe consequences for employees' mental health. While some companies are still struggling to address burnout, Dorias notes that the industry has made significant progress in recent years. Developers are becoming more vocal about the importance of work-life balance, and some companies, like Eidos Montreal, have successfully implemented a four-day work week. However, Dorias warns that these gains are at risk of being reversed, particularly for junior developers who have limited leverage and job security. He argues that companies must take a systemic approach to addressing burnout, recognizing that it is a business imperative to keep their employees healthy and happy. By doing so, companies can benefit from more productive and motivated employees, rather than simply demanding longer working hours.