The Games Industry Needs to Rethink Its Approach to Outsourcing and Contracting

A disturbing trend has emerged in the games industry, with two prominent composers, Sarah Schachner and Mick Gordon, making headlines due to the breakdown of their relationships with major studios. This phenomenon is not an isolated incident, but rather a symptom of a broader problem in the way the industry approaches creative outsourcing. The fact that these incidents are occurring at all underscores a long-standing issue with how many game companies interact with contractors and outsourcing partners. Schachner and Gordon, both highly respected and talented composers, have found themselves at odds with their client studios, Activision Blizzard and Id Software, respectively. The details of these disputes vary, but they share a common thread - the exploitation of creative contractors and the lack of respect for their work. The games industry has become increasingly reliant on outsourcing in recent decades, which has brought about both benefits and drawbacks. On the one hand, outsourcing has provided studios with the flexibility to tackle larger projects and access specialized skills. However, this model has also been abused by some companies, which have used it as an excuse to downsize their internal teams or outsource core competencies. This approach often backfires when problems arise, and contractors are left to bear the brunt of the blame. The industry's attitude towards outsourcing has also raised concerns about working conditions, particularly in developing countries. Moreover, the ubiquity of outsourcing has created a sense of disposability among some decision-makers, who view contractors as interchangeable and easily replaceable. This mindset has led to a focus on cost-cutting, with outsourcing companies being pushed to compete on price rather than skill. However, this approach is misguided, as outsourcing is inherently more expensive than in-house work. The true benefit of outsourcing lies in its flexibility, which can help studios manage their burn rate and allocate resources more efficiently. The recent disputes between composers and game studios serve as a wake-up call for the industry. It is no longer acceptable to treat contractors and outsourcing partners as disposable or inferior. The industry must recognize the value and talent that these individuals bring to a project and treat them with respect and fairness. This may involve adopting more flexible contract terms, providing better working conditions, and acknowledging the contributions of contractors to a project's success. The games industry can learn from Hollywood's approach to contracting, which has developed effective ways to make partnerships work. As the industry continues to evolve, it is essential to prioritize the well-being and respect of creative contractors and outsourcing partners. Failure to do so may lead to a shift in the balance of power, with top talent becoming more discerning about the clients they work with and the contracts they accept.