Independents Are the Future of Video Games,” Says John Romero
Marcus Thompson 
Key Takeaways
Created with AI - we're still experimenting, so apologies if it misses the mark
- Indie studios are playing a significant role in shaping the future of video games, with smaller teams creating unique experiences that are gaining attention from both players and major publishers.
- Indie titles frequently win Game of the Year awards, often accounting for half of these accolades, highlighting their influence in the gaming landscape.
- The increased accessibility of game development technology has made it easier for developers to release high-quality games, leading to substantial growth in the industry.
- In contrast to the past, technological barriers for indie developers have largely been overcome, with success now hinging on compelling game design and exposure to a wide audience.
John Romero Emphasizes Indie Studios’ Influence in Reshaping Video Game Landscape
Video game industry legend John Romero believes indie studios are shaping the future of gaming. These smaller teams create unique experiences that prompt AAA producers to take notice and even seek to emulate their success. Romero points to games like Balatro, Baldur’s Gate 3, Helldivers 2, and even Minecraft (before Microsoft acquired Mojang) as examples gaining significant attention from both players and major publishers. Romero highlights the substantial impact of indies by noting their strong presence in major awards. He observes that indie titles frequently win Game of the Year accolades, often winning half of these awards. This influence is also evident in sheer volume: most games released monthly on Steam are indie titles, and platforms like Itch.io, iOS, and Android host countless independent productions.
Shaping the Future: Indie Studios Transforming Electronic Gaming Landscape
During a recent Deep Dive podcast, Romero discussed the industry’s significant growth, largely attributing it to the proliferation of indie developers. He emphasizes that the gaming world has expanded considerably, with more players than ever before, and it has become remarkably easier for developers to release high-quality games. He contrasts this with the past, when challenges such as high disc production costs and limited retail access hindered independent developers. Today, technological barriers are largely overcome; success now hinges on a compelling game design that captures players’ attention, especially given the increased ease of exposing games to a wide audience. For Romero, these factors solidify indie studios’ position as the future of electronic gaming.
In Case You Missed It
For those interested in the gaming industry and its recent challenges, don’t miss Jonathan Dubinski’s insightful piece from July 6, 2025, titled “Romero Games, by John Romero of Doom, ends with layoff of over 100 people, says site,” which delves into the closure of Romero Games and the impact of Microsoft’s funding cuts on this iconic developer. Despite the setback, there’s hope for a revival as the owners explore new opportunities to restart operations. In recent news that has sent ripples through the gaming industry, Romero Games has abruptly closed its doors and laid off over 100 employees following funding cuts from Xbox, as detailed in Sophie Laurent’s insightful article from July 6th, marking a significant shift for the studio behind beloved titles like “Brütal Legend.” Despite the current uncertainty, there’s hope that the owners might find new publishers to breathe life back into Romero Games. For those keeping an eye on the gaming industry, especially the fate of Romero Games in the wake of recent funding cuts, be sure to read Carlos Mendoza’s latest update titled “Romero Games Declares Itself Alive: Microsoft’s Cut Doesn’t End the Studio” (July 7, 2025). The post dives into how the studio is still very much operational despite initial reports suggesting otherwise. Romero Games has been actively seeking new partnerships to revive their ambitious shooter project and keep the creative momentum going. To learn more about this impactful story and share your thoughts on the future of independent game development, head over to Romero Games, by John Romero of Doom, ends with layoff of over 100 people, says site and Romero Games Declares Itself Alive: Microsoft’s Cut Doesn’t End the Studio.
About the Author
Sophie Laurent 
Ahmed Hassan 
