2023 was a year marked by significant layoffs in the games industry, and the trend is expected to continue. The uncertainty surrounding the end of this trend is causing concern as more job losses loom ahead.
Our industry experts offer their insights on the state of jobs within the industry and the hiring process, as many individuals are still seeking new opportunities in the field of games.
Questions are raised about whether there is a talent shortage or simply a shortage of talent to fill the available roles, along with discussions on how teams can attract the best talent and how potential candidates can stand out.
Here’s what our industry Mavens had to say:
Recruitment in 2024:
Tom Hammond from Userwise forecasts recruitment based on potential deals, with the likelihood of massively scaling up the team.
Talent in the team:
Tom shares that while there is always space for more talented individuals on the team, there is currently an excellent team in place.
Addressing talent shortage:
Tom points out that there is not necessarily a talent shortage, as they are already recruiting internationally. He expresses a preference for remote work to accommodate working with the best talent globally.
Attracting talent:
Tom acknowledges the challenge of attracting top talent, conveying the need for continued networking and relationship building. He recommends a book by Geoff Smart for effective hiring processes.
Work tips:
Tom suggests a bold approach, advocating for a non-traditional job-searching method by reaching out to potential employers with solutions to specific problems they’re facing.
Recruitment in 2024:
Simon Hade from Space Ape outlines plans for aggressive recruitment in 2024 to meet the challenges in the puzzle game genre.
Talent in the team:
Simon sees the need to onboard individuals with more specialist expertise as they scale up, particularly in the areas of product management, casual puzzle, and team production, while acknowledging their existing talented team.
Addressing talent shortage:
Contrary to a talent shortage, Simon highlights the abundance of job applications received in London and the ease of connecting with global talent, despite the challenges posed by Brexit.
Attracting talent:
Simon stresses that engaging in interesting and creative game projects is the best way to attract talent, as he plans to continue actively sharing their game development journey.
Work tips:
Simon encourages aspiring game industry professionals to collaborate and publish game projects, embracing hands-on game development as a demonstration of skills and curiosity.
Martine Spaans
Owner
Tamalaki
Recruitment in 2024:
Martine shares insights about recruitment, indicating that expansion for Tamalaki Publishing is not the immediate priority for 2024.
Talent shortage:
Regarding the Dutch Games Association, Martine reflects on the abundant talent pool in the Netherlands, emphasizing the need for incentives to attract international professionals to the region.
Work tips:
Martine offers practical advice for those aspiring for a career in the gaming industry, encouraging proactive self-starting initiatives and continuous skill development.
Talent in the team:
Stuart De Ville provides insights into the skilled teams at Game Dev London and Fribbly Games, recognizing the collective talent and passion within both environments.
Talent shortage:
Stuart sheds light on the dynamic job market, emphasizing the need for a refined recruitment approach to accommodate the abundance of skilled individuals seeking opportunities.
Attracting talent:
Stuart prioritizes personal interactions for recruiting top-tier talent, stressing the importance of cultural fit and team cohesion, especially for indie studios.
Work tips:
Stuart shares advice for aspiring game industry professionals to adapt to evolving industry needs, maintain awareness of industry challenges, and focus on developing essential game making skills.
