Microsoft, EA, and Layoffs: The Gaming Industry’s Toughest Year?
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In this episode of Digital Coffee Gaming Brew, host Brett discusses the upcoming open beta for Split Gate 2, EA's implementation of kernel-level anti-cheat software, Microsoft's price increases for Xbox consoles, and the suspension of shipments from China by 8-Bit Do due to new tariffs. The episode also covers significant layoffs in the gaming industry, with a focus on EA, Polygon, and Codemasters, and delves into the broader issues facing game developers and publishers today.
3 Fun Facts:
- Splitgate 2’s open beta will be available on both old and new consoles—with full cross-play—and will feature a custom map editor, potentially offering an infinite number of maps.
- EA’s kernel-level anti-cheat software, EA Javelin, claims a 99% accuracy rate and has prevented 33 million cheating attempts since 2022.
- The creator of the popular indie game “Skelegun” is just one person, yet their game has outperformed many AAA titles in polish and fun.
Key Themes
- Splitgate 2 open beta and features
- EA’s new kernel-level anti-cheat software
- Microsoft and 8BitDo price hikes, tariffs
- Polygon layoffs and media consolidation
- EA layoffs and troubled Respawn projects
- AAA studios chasing trends, losing identity
- Gaming industry struggles, rising consumer dissatisfaction
30 episodes