This episode discusses harassment and anti-discrimination policies in the indie game industry, as well as layoffs and studio closures. The International Game Developers Association's 2023 Developer Satisfaction Survey revealed issues with equity, diversity, inclusion, layoffs, and crunch. Many developers feel that policies on non-discrimination and equal opportunity are not adequately enforced, and a significant number of workplaces lack diversity and inclusion programs. The toxic work culture in many game companies hinders the production of quality games. The episode also touches on the shift towards live service games, microtransactions, and monetization in the gaming industry.

In this episode of the Indie Basement podcast, I discuss the recent news of Embracer Group splitting into three different companies: Asmodee for tabletop gaming, Coffee Stain for indie games, and Middle Earth Enterprises and Friends for AAA titles. I express concern about the impact of shareholder value on the gaming industry and the rising cost of games. I also highlight the recent Indie World Showcase by Nintendo, featuring games like Little Kitty Big City, SteamWorld, and Yars Rising. I emphasize the importance of supporting indie game developers and considering the value of games beyond their price.

Takeaways
Embracer Group is splitting into three companies: Asmodee for tabletop gaming, Coffee Stain for indie games, and Middle Earth Enterprises and Friends for AAA titles.
The host expresses concern about the impact of shareholder value on the gaming industry and the rising cost of games.
The Indie World Showcase by Nintendo featured games like Little Kitty Big City, SteamWorld, and Yars Rising.
Supporting indie game developers is important, and the value of a game should be considered beyond its price.