We all know where we are right now. The game industry is going through one of its most challenging chapters. Budgets are ballooning, production timelines are harder to predict than ever, and the fear of layoffs has become part of the daily reality for developers and artists alike.

To better understand how studios are navigating these pressures, we spoke with Jason Millena, Executive Creative Director at Devoted Studios.

With over two decades of experience, Jason has helped ship a wide range of titles across genres and platforms. His past work includes Lord of the Rings mobile games, Hunger Games, Legacy of Zeus, Bitizens, RuneScape Mobile, and several AAA projects for Disney IPs.

Shipping more, alongside industry demands, with fewer people, less time, and tighter budgets is a challenging task.

The Reality Check: Mapping Today’s Challenges in Game Development

Things are tough, and we’re all feeling it.

Game development has become more expensive, harder to plan, and less stable than ever before. Studios are under pressure to move fast, save money, and make smart decisions, all while trying to avoid burnout and layoffs.

According to this year’s GDC State of the Industry survey, 11% of developers reported being laid off in the past year, with those in narrative roles taking the hardest hit — 19% of respondents in that field were affected. Business and finance roles saw the lowest reported layoffs at 6%, but even that number paints a concerning picture.

The ripple effects go even deeper: 41% of developers said they’ve felt the impact of layoffs in some way. That includes 29% who’ve seen their direct colleagues let go, and another 18% who’ve seen it happen to other teams. A small but sobering 4% said they were laid off due to full studio closures.

As for why these layoffs are happening? There’s no single answer. 22% said restructuring, 18% pointed to declining revenues, and 15% cited broader industry or market shifts. Strikingly, nearly 1 in 5 developers (19%) said they weren’t given any reason at all.

It’s a lot to take in, but before we get into how to fix it, let’s take a moment to map out the key challenges clearly. Only then can we talk about what a better path forward looks like.

Doing more with less

Nearly 70% of developers said they’re trying to do more work with fewer resources. 45% are using productivity tools to move faster, and 24% are trying to get better results from their monetization and live ops budgets.

Some studios are also choosing to stay small on purpose. Around 20% said they’re staying lean to avoid big risks, like overhiring or taking on debt. 10% are avoiding hiring more people, 6% are not borrowing money, and 4% are even slowing down their growth just to stay safer in this uncertain market.

Shipping more, alongside industry demands, with fewer people, less time, and tighter budgets is a challenging ask. Tools can help of course, but they don’t fully solve bandwidth challenges. They also can’t solve the pressure of needing to deliver meaningful, high-quality content without burning out your team.

He explained that some studios are staying small on purpose, and that makes sense. “You avoid overhiring, you stay nimble, communications are more streamlined, and you protect your culture,” he said. “But a big tradeoff is capacity. You’ve got the ideas, you’ve got the quality bar, but you often need more hands to execute.”

According to Jason, this is where the right co-development partner can make all the difference.

“Co-development gives you that,” he said. “Not just as outsourcing, but as a true extension of your team. One that’s aligned with your goals, your priorities, and your style of working. It’s a way to keep your creative vision intact without compromising scope, quality, or sanity.”

He added, “It’s not about doing more for the sake of more. It’s about doing the right things, with the right people, while keeping your core team focused on what matters most.”

Uncertainty, layoffs & instability

We’ve all seen the headlines. Restructures. Layoffs. Teams folding mid-project. Talent is being pushed out, and companies are struggling to retain expert contributors. Scaling up or down feels risky when no one’s sure what the next quarter will bring.

Over the past few years, the games industry has seen a sharp increase in layoffs, with 8,500 developers laid off in 2022, 10,500 in 2023, and projections showing 13,750 in 2024. Major companies like Embracer Group, Microsoft Game Studios, and Electronic Arts have all reduced their headcount significantly, contributing to the instability in the industry.

These layoffs are having ripple effects across the workforce, with many developers seeing their colleagues, or even entire teams, let go. This instability creates a constant cloud of uncertainty for those still working in the field.

“This uncertainty weighs on people,” said Jason. “It makes planning harder. You’ve got a roadmap to hit, but scaling up feels risky when the future’s unclear.”

The Future of Gaming is Disrupted by New Forces

As the game development industry navigates through rising costs, layoffs, and unpredictable market conditions, its future is being reshaped by three major forces that are transforming how games are made, played, and experienced. These forces are driving the industry forward, creating new opportunities, but also presenting new challenges.

As the game development industry navigates through rising costs, layoffs, and unpredictable market conditions, its future is being reshaped by three major forces that are transforming how games are made, played, and experienced. These forces are driving the industry forward, creating new opportunities, but also presenting new challenges.

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As Jason put it,

These shifts are exciting, but they’re also overwhelming when you’re in the middle of trying to ship something tangible. On the creative and design side, it becomes hard to balance focus with flexibility. Your instincts push you to lean into emerging trends, communities, new tech, and evolving platforms, but the day-to-day reality of development doesn’t always leave room for that level of experimentation.

Jason highlighted how the right co-development partner can shift the pace and potential of a project. “It’s not just about getting things out the door,” he said. “It’s about bringing in fresh thinking, exploring tools like AI in a safe way, or quickly prototyping ideas without pulling your core team away from mission-critical work.”

He continued, “In a space that’s moving this fast, having partners who can scale and shift with you isn’t just useful. It’s essential.”

Devoted Studios’ Co-Development Approach is a Response to the Industry Challenges

At Devoted Studios, we’ve completely reimagined co-development. We don’t see it as a side service or just an add-on, but rather as a strategic solution to many of the challenges that game studios are facing today.

We know that the industry is evolving, and so are the needs of the studios and the talent. As projects grow more complex, the traditional model of relying on a single, in-house team for every stage of development is increasingly difficult to maintain. That’s why we’ve made co-development the cornerstone of how we work with our partners.

Instead of just plugging gaps when needed, we approach co-development as an ongoing collaboration, where we become an integral part of the team, bringing the right talent at the right time. This means fewer headaches for studios trying to predict every resource need and more efficiency in how games get made.

Our co-development model isn’t just about filling the talent gap, but we are bringing expert teams together in a way that optimizes production, reduces the pressure of deadlines, and gives both studios and developers more control.

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Devoted Services: Built for Every Stage of Game Development

At Devoted, we understand these struggles because we work alongside studios facing them every day. That’s why our services are built not just to support your goals, but to adapt to your reality. We’re here to bring structure, clarity, and real support.

When you work with us, you gain visibility at every stage of production. You always know what’s happening, what’s coming next, and where your project stands. No surprises. No gaps in communication.

We focus on three core services that give studios the control, support, and speed they need:

Co-Development & Porting

We offer full co-development and game porting services, supporting projects from concept to launch and across multiple platforms. Our team works closely with you to build, refine, and adapt your game for new systems while keeping performance and quality top of mind.

Full-Cycle Game Development

We offer full game development support from idea to launch. Our team works closely with you to build great gaming experiences. Every project gets a custom plan, using our team’s creativity and experience to deliver quality results on time and within budget.

End-to-End Art Production

Devoted Studios works with a network of over 1,900 creative talents across the U.S. and worldwide. Our experienced art directors and producers lead each project from beginning to end, making sure everything runs smoothly and meets the highest quality standards.

We support everything from AAA titles to indie games on Steam, and we create both photorealistic and stylized content. Whatever your vision looks like, we have the skills, tools, and passion to bring it to life.

Meet the Experts Behind Devoted Studios’ Co-Development Excellence

Our mission is to bring flexibility, visibility, and stability to game development. We do this by building custom strike teams—small, specialized groups of top-notch industry experts that can jump in at the right time and keep projects moving forward.

Leading these teams are our CTO, creative director, animation director, tech art lead, and VP of production. These are industry veterans with a history of delivering some of the most ambitious and successful titles in gaming. Their experience has helped shape AAA production standards, and they bring both deep expertise and consistent results to every project.

Our experts are involved at every stage of production, from early concept through final delivery. More than just supporting projects, they lead with strategy, clear communication, and hands-on problem solving, helping studios stay focused, flexible, and ready for anything.

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Co-Development Isn’t a Backup Plan, It’s the New Foundation

The game industry is changing fast. Production is more complex, timelines shift quickly, and the fear of layoffs is a real concern. At Devoted, we don’t just respond to that reality — we’ve built a model around it.

As studios shift toward smaller, more agile teams, we meet them where they are. Our custom strike teams plug into any stage of development, bringing the exact skill sets needed to support, scale, and stabilize projects.

We offer more than just talent. We offer clarity around what’s next, visibility into upcoming work, and a structure that allows both studios and artists to plan with confidence.

With Devoted, you get the right people, the right process, and the flexibility to adapt — all without the chaos. And if you’re navigating complexity, shifting pipelines, or scaling up or down — you’re not alone.

You can scale with ease. And with Devoted, you don’t have to go it alone.

Game development is exciting, messy, creative, and—let’s be honest—sometimes a little bit messy. That’s why we’re glad to have Harvey Newman on board. He helps bring more structure, focus, and flow to the process.

Harvey is our Animation Director Consultant, bringing more than 20 years of experience in the game industry. He has worked with studios around the world, helping teams improve their pipelines, bring characters to life, and stay focused on what really matters… making great games.

Harvey brings years of hands-on experience, not only in animation but also in guiding teams through complex production challenges. He supports artists and developers through every stage of development, offering clear feedback, structure, and practical solutions when it matters most.

Let’s walk into his journey, what he brings to the table, and how he’s helping us (and our partners!) optimize the game development process from start to finish.

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Animation That Moves You… Literally!

If you’ve ever seen Harvey’s YouTube channel, you’ll know what we mean when we say he’s a powerhouse of animation knowledge. With tutorials, masterclasses, live Q&As, and tips covering everything from Maya to Blender, character animation to industry insights, Harvey’s built a space that’s equal parts technical and inspirational.

What sets Harvey apart is his ability to break down complex animation workflows into practical, easy-to-understand steps that make sense whether you’re new to the field or have years of experience.

At Devoted Studios, Harvey brings that same helpful energy to our projects. He supports our artists, gives clear feedback, and helps teams avoid getting stuck in production bottlenecks.

Honestly, I just love helping characters feel real. That moment when an animation clicks and suddenly the player feels something? That’s the magic. If I can help teams hit that moment more often, I’m doing my job.

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From Idea to Execution: Harvey’s Take on the Pipeline

When Harvey talks about “optimizing the pipeline,” he means making the whole process run more smoothly. That means finding the spots where things slow down or get confusing, then fixing them so teams can spend more time on animating, creating, and building the game.

When I jump into a new project, I’m looking for the choke points, the places where good ideas get stuck. Once we clean that up, teams can focus on the fun stuff: making great animation, telling better stories, and building something they’re proud of.

As our Animation Director Consultant, Harvey helps us and our clients:

His goal is to make the animation process more efficient, collaborative, and rewarding for everyone involved.

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Animation Isn’t Just a Step in the Pipeline

One of the things Harvey’s big on is changing how we think about animation in game development.

Too often, animation is treated as a phase that happens after design, after art, and just before polish. But Harvey sees it as something much more central—and way more powerful.

A lot of people still treat animation like it’s just the thing you do after the art’s done—but the truth is, animation can shape the whole experience. It’s not just about movement it’s about feel, response, timing. If you think about it early, everything else gets better.

At Devoted Studios, we couldn’t agree more. That’s why we bring Harvey into the conversation early—during concept development, pre-production planning, and throughout live projects. His insights help us think ahead, avoid costly revisions later, and make smarter creative decisions right from the start.

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Why Our Teams Love Working with Harvey

Game projects can get intense. There are deadlines, feedback rounds, and lots of moving parts. Having someone like Harvey around helps teams stay focused and calm.

He doesn’t just give advice and disappear. He sticks with the team, joins meetings, reviews animation passes, and works side by side with art directors to keep things moving in the right direction.

I don’t believe in just showing up with a checklist and leaving. I like getting in the trenches with teams—reviewing shots, jumping on calls, figuring things out together. That’s how good games get made. Shoulder to shoulder.

That mindset resonates across every project he touches. From early planning to final polish, Harvey helps our teams feel supported, seen, and ready to push for the best work possible.

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What He’s Teaching Us All (And You, Too!)

Harvey’s influence goes beyond the projects he works on directly. His advice and support shape how we work as a studio and help our artists grow.

I always say: stay curious, share early, and don’t be afraid to get things wrong. Animation’s not about getting it perfect on the first try—it’s about testing, playing, learning. That’s where the real growth happens.

We see this every day. Harvey makes it okay to ask questions, take risks, and learn from mistakes. He helps us build a creative space where people feel confident to explore ideas and improve their work.

Thanks to him, we’re not just creating better animations. We’re growing as a team, building trust, and enjoying the process along the way.

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Building Better Games, Together

At Devoted Studios, we believe that people like Harvey make all the difference. Not just because of their experience or skill (though he has plenty of both), but because of their ability to uplift others, bring clarity to chaos, and genuinely care about the work they do.

He might be reviewing animation passes, coaching a team, or streaming live tutorials to his YouTube community—but Harvey is always focused on one thing: making great games and helping others do the same.

If you’re working on a project that needs animation support, creative feedback, or a fresh pair of eyes on your pipeline, there’s a good chance you’ll be working with Harvey. And trust us—you’ll be in good hands.

I’ve been doing this for a while now, and what keeps me going isn’t just the games, it’s the people. If I can help a team move better, think clearer, or feel more confident in their work, then I’m exactly where I want to be.

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Work with Harvey through Devoted Studios

Want Harvey to take care of the animation side of your game? You’re in good hands. As our Animation Director Consultant, he partners closely with studios to bring clarity, energy, and top-tier animation to every stage of development.

Get in touch with us at Devoted Studios—we’d love to chat about how Harvey (and our team) can support your next project.

At the heart of every game project is a team of artists, designers, and engineers—but none of it moves forward without strong production.
At Devoted Studios, our producers are the driving force behind smooth collaboration, on-time deliveries, and clear communication. They make sure tasks are clear, teams are aligned, and clients stay informed—no matter how complex or fast-paced the project is.
But what does that actually look like day-to-day?
To find out, we spoke with Carol Morato, Lead Producer at Devoted Studios. She walked us through what a producer really does, the tools and habits that keep things on track, and how good communication can make or break a project.

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Meet Carol, Devoted Studios’ Steady and Clear-Minded Producer

If you’ve worked with Devoted Studios, there’s a good chance you’ve met Carol.
Carol is one of the producers at Devoted Studios. She helps make sure projects stay on track, and that both the team and the client know what’s happening at every step.
She’s calm, organized, and easy to talk to. If there’s a problem, Carol usually spots it early and works with others to fix it before it grows.
You’ll notice right away with Carol how clearly she communicates. She makes sure feedback is clear, tasks are well explained, and the whole team knows what to focus on. She’s careful with the details, but always keeps the full project in mind.

I try to give everyone the support they need to do their best work. That means staying clear, being available, and keeping things moving.

Carol is just one example of how our producers help projects run smoothly from start to finish.

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Producers Keep the Work (and People) Connected

The production team at Devoted acts like the central nervous system of the studio. Carol sees the production team as the central link between everyone involved in a project—clients, artists, leads, and delivery managers. Their job is to make sure information flows smoothly, expectations are set clearly, and blockers don’t build up quietly in the background.

We connect clients, artists, leads, and directors. As producers at Devoted, we wear many hats: planners, communicators, coordinators, and problem-solvers.

That means checking progress, updating tools like Jira, replying to messages, and running check-ins with the team. But it also means checking in on people—not just tasks. If someone needs help or is stuck waiting on feedback, it’s the producer who steps in to keep things moving.
One thing Carol brings up often is how much simple, clear communication matters. Devoted has a few internal values that help guide how we work together, and her favorite is straightforward:
“Always care,” she said. “A quick message to check in with a teammate, or to clarify a point rather than assume — it can change the tone of an entire day. It builds trust and ensures people know we have their back.”

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A Clear Production Flow That Works Across Teams

Every project at Devoted is a little different, but our producers follow a process that helps keep things on track and predictable, especially in a remote setting.

Carol walked us through the flow she uses on most projects:

Throughout every stage, we focus on transparency, proactive planning, and clear communication. That’s what helps avoid last-minute issues and builds trust with the team and the client.

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The Tools That Support the Work

Carol uses a mix of tools to stay organized:

But it’s not one-size-fits-all. Devoted works with different clients, and we’re used to jumping into whatever tools they’re already using—whether that’s Notion, Trello, or ShotGrid.

“We’re flexible,” Carol said. “If a client has a system that works for them, we don’t force them to change it. We fit into it.”

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A Producer Needs to Keep Everyone Connected

The best projects are the ones where everyone knows what’s going on. Carol says that regular updates, visible timelines, and respectful communication go a long way.
She usually sends weekly reports, holds weekly meetings with clients and teams, and makes sure that milestones and task deadlines are clear from the start.
“We use delivery checklists and definitions of done,” she explained. “That way, everyone knows what’s expected. No surprises.”
At Devoted, strong communication is one of the most important parts of production.
Carol shared how they keep things clear across teams and time zones:

We also translate between creative and technical language when needed. That way, no detail is lost between the concept and execution. Above all, we care—we make time to listen and follow up with empathy and clarity.

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The Things That Slow Teams Down (That No One Talks About) and How to Catch Them Early

Not all blockers are obvious. Some are small and quiet, like missing specs, delayed feedback, or unclear briefs. Carol calls these silent blockers.

If there’s one thing every producer should do at the start of the day, it’s check for silent blockers.

By spotting these early, producers can stop them from growing into real problems.
So how do you spot them before they cause delays?
For Carol, it starts with a morning scan. She looks at all ongoing projects, checks deadlines, reviews conversations, and tries to catch anything that looks stuck. She runs quick 15-minute stand-ups with her team to make sure everyone’s aligned and follows up on any unresolved questions or missing feedback.
These small habits help her catch issues early—before they grow into bigger problems
Carol also keeps a close eye on how fast the work is moving compared to what was planned. If something feels off, she speaks up.

Open, honest communication is key. If we see something slipping, we bring it up and work together to course correct.

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A Day in the Life of a Devoted Producer (And How You Can Work Like One Too)

Being a producer at Devoted Studios means handling a lot of moving parts, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. It’s about having a clear structure, staying aware of what’s going on, and building simple habits that keep everything running smoothly without burning out.
So what does a “typical day” look like?

Our day is a mix of short-term follow-up — resolving blockers or clarifying briefs — and long-term planning, like tracking milestone health, balancing resource allocations, and flagging potential risks. It’s all about keeping the momentum steady while making sure the quality and communication stay sharp.

Another thing Carol keeps an eye on is project pace, “We track how fast things are moving compared to the plan. If something looks off, we bring it up early and adjust.”

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Advice for New Producers

As we wrapped up our conversation, we asked Carol what advice she’d give to someone stepping into the world of co-development for the first time. Her advice was simple:

Build trust by being considerate and proactive. Don’t wait for problems to escalate. Overcommunicate when you’re unsure, and always remember you’re here to enable the team and protect the project—not to micromanage.

Quick Tips to Take With You
Here are a few of Carol’s habits and insights—quick to remember and easy to apply:

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Let’s Wrap Up Our Conversation!

Producers at Devoted Studios are the reason projects stay on track, teams stay supported, and clients stay confident in the process. They combine structure with empathy, clarity with flexibility, and planning with heart.
Carol is just one example of how our production team leads with intention and care—making space for artists to create, developers to focus, and ideas to move forward. Behind every smooth delivery is a producer making sure the right people are aligned, the right tools are in place, and the creative vision stays protected.
If you’re building something and want a steady hand guiding the process, we’re here to help.
Partner with producers who keep things moving, without the stress.

If you’re here, you probably already know that Fortnite has become a huge cultural phenomenon. In 2024, there were about 650 million registered players, with around 1.1 million people playing every day. With numbers like that, it’s easy to see why so many brands want to get involved in Fortnite, using it as a way to enter the metaverse and boost consumer engagement and brand awareness with a fresh, new audience.
Think about it: where else can you connect with millions of people, create something unique, and interact with your audience in such a dynamic, engaging way?
But there’s a catch. Jumping into Fortnite isn’t as simple as slapping your logo onto a game. With so many brands trying to make their mark, standing out can be a challenge. Without the right strategy or expertise, brands can easily miss the mark and fail to connect with their audience, leaving their efforts lost in the noise.
To successfully launch a brand experience in Fortnite, brands need to work with Fortnite brand activation developers who know how the game works and what its audience enjoys. These experts help create fun, interactive experiences that allow brands to connect with players through in-game events, custom skins, emotes, and more.

How to Launch a Brand Experience in Fortnite

Launching a brand experience in Fortnite requires a deep understanding of the game’s mechanics and audience. Here’s how brands can do it:

Partner with the Right Developer

If you want to launch a successful brand experience in Fortnite, it’s important to team up with a developer that really knows the game. The right developer will guide you through everything, from the first idea to the final launch.
Fortnite brand activation developers can help create the perfect experience for your brand. Whether you want to design a custom in-game environment, create a unique item like a skin or emote, or even plan an event that gets players involved, the agency will have the expertise to make sure your brand activation feels fun and fits naturally into the Fortnite world.

Decide on the Type of Experience

There are so many ways to create a brand experience in Fortnite, depending on how you want to engage with players. Here are a few ideas:

• In-Game Events: You can host fun in-game events like concerts, tournaments, or challenges that let players interact with your brand in exciting ways. For example, our collaboration with Full Cycle Development for Nike Airphoria Vol. 2 brought a cool, immersive experience to Fortnite. This collaborative event gave players the opportunity to interact with Nike’s iconic Air technology in the ever changing world of Fortnite.
• Custom Fortnite Game Development: If you want something totally unique, you can work with developers to create custom game modes, maps, or environments. This helps players interact with your brand in a deeper, more inviting way.
• Branded Skins and Items: You can also design custom skins, emotes, and other items that players can use in the game. These branded items are a great way to boost your brand’s visibility and let players show their support.

Devoted Studios Leads the Way in Fortnite Brand Experiences

At Devoted Studios, we’re all about creating exciting and immersive Fortnite brand experiences. We know how to seamlessly bring brands into Fortnite’s world, making sure that every activation feels engaging and authentic. As the premier choice for brands looking to make their mark in the Fortnite Universe, we specialize in creating virtual islands with mini-games and high-quality 3D assets.

Some of Our Collaborations

• Nike Airphoria Vol. 2: We teamed up with Nike to create Airphoria Vol. 2, an immersive gaming experience in Fortnite. This project featured custom-designed islands and unique gameplay, allowing players to explore and interact with Nike’s branding in a totally new way. With stunning 3D modeling, visual effects, and creative world-building, we brought Nike’s virtual experience to life.
• Hell’s Kitchen: We also worked with renowned chef Gordon Ramsay to create unforgettable Hell’s Kitchen restaurant experiences on ITV’s LAND in the Sandbox.
• PlayVS Zone Wars: Recently, we collaborated with PlayVS to introduce a new 2v2 team deathmatch mode to Fortnite using Unreal Engine for Fortnite. Our goal was to design 25 unique arenas, each offering its own twist, and create custom rules to make the gameplay more exciting. Despite facing UEFN’s limitations and a tight two-month deadline, we successfully completed the project, delivering an engaging and fresh experience for players.

Our Expertise and Services

As the premier choice for brands looking to make their mark in the Fortnite Universe, we, at Devoted Studios, specialize in creating virtual islands with mini-games and high-quality 3D assets. We offer a range of services tailored to brands aiming to establish a presence in Fortnite. 

Other Developers for Fortnite Brand Experiences

While Devoted Studios excels in creating Fortnite brand experiences, several other developers also offer specialized Fortnite creative development services.

Leartes Studios

Leatres Studios is one of the UEFN developers that brings impressive expertise to Fortnite brand experiences. Their team of highly experienced Environment Artists is skilled in creating any type of environment within game engines like Unreal Engine and Unity.

Spark Studio

Spark Studio is another Fortnite brand activation developer that excels in creating incredible brand experiences within Fortnite. They focus on level design, developing unique environments and challenges that provide a distinctive gaming experience. They also specialize in asset creation, designing stunning visual elements and interactive resources that enrich the overall experience and help bring the game to life. Additionally, Spark Studio is skilled in creating custom mechanics to make sure great game performance.

Final Words

Bringing your brand into Fortnite is a great way to connect with a huge, engaged audience through fun and immersive experiences. Teaming up with agencies like Devoted Studios helps make sure your brand stands out in the game in a way that feels real and impactful. With their skills in creative direction, technical development, and brand integration, they can help you create unforgettable moments that really resonate with players and boost your brand’s visibility in the gaming industry.

To get even more insight into the process, we reached out to Michael B, our amazing Technical Director, who shared his expertise on the key aspects of this transition. His deep understanding of UE5 and our hands-on experience with porting made this article possible.

Key Differences Between UE3 and UE5

Preparing Assets for UE5

Static and Skeletal Meshes

• Export UE3 meshes as .FBX files using the UDK Content Browser or 3DS Max/Maya with the ActorX plugin.
• Clean Up Geometry: UE3 models may have issues with tangents, normals, and pivots, so be prepared for some geometry cleanup.
• Re-import into UE5, ensuring Nanite support is enabled for static meshes to fully utilize UE5’s high-poly asset handling.

Materials

• Rebuild Materials: In UE3, materials used basic shading models (diffuse, specular). In UE5, you’ll need to switch to the full Physically Based Rendering (PBR) workflow, including Base Color, Metallic, Roughness, and Normal.
• Reuse Masks: If you used masks like RGB packed textures in UE3, you can still reuse them for Roughness, Metallic, and Ambient Occlusion (AO) in UE5.

VFX Conversion: Cascade to Niagara

#Step 1: Export UE3 Cascade Emitters

• Reference Key Parameters: This includes spawn rate, lifetime, size over time, materials, particle types (CPU/GPU), and events.

#Step 2: Rebuild in Niagara

• Niagara Features: Niagara supports ribbon, mesh, and sprite particles, CPU/GPU simulations, and complex logic via scripting. It gives us the flexibility to rework and improve the VFX from the original UE3 system.

Gameplay Logic Conversion: Moving from UnrealScript to Blueprints and C++

• Use Kismet Logic as a Reference: Kismet was UE3’s visual scripting system, and now Blueprints serve a similar role in UE5.
• Modularize Gameplay Code: Break the gameplay logic into smaller, reusable modules to streamline development and improve performance.
• Automate with Python: UE5 supports Python automation, allowing us to batch import assets, set up structures, and speed up the porting process.

Other Important Considerations

Cinematics & Camera Systems

Physics

Audio

The Final Checklist: What You Should Do Before Launch

• Export all geometry, animations, and effects from UE3.
• Rebuild materials using the PBR workflow.
• Recreate VFX using Niagara.
• Rewrite gameplay logic in Blueprints/C++.
• Replace cinematics with Sequencer.
• Replace physics with Chaos-based setups.
• Use Lumen for lighting and disable baked lights.
• Perform QA testing to ensure the visuals, performance, and gameplay are up to standard.

Tools We Use to Help Us Along the Way

Our Tips for a Successful Porting Process

• Reuse textures and animations whenever possible to save time and effort.
• Don’t just do a 1:1 port. Use this opportunity to enhance visuals, gameplay, and fidelity.
• Nanite is perfect for static meshes, especially in large environments.
• Use retargeting for animations to make the most out of old and new skeletons.

Porting Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated – Here’s How Devoted Studios Makes It Easy

In game development, there’s a role that not everyone talks about, but it’s super important to the success of a game: Art QA. Art QA’s job is to make sure everything in the game looks and works just as it should. This includes checking 3D models, textures, animations, and special effects to ensure they meet both the technical requirements and the creative goals of the game.

At Devoted Studios, we know how important quality is. As a co-development, full-cycle development, and game porting company, we work hard to make sure every asset (the visual elements like models and textures) is in a class all by itself. And that’s why never skip the step of testing the art to make sure every detail is flawless.

So we want to walk you through what our Art QA does, why it’s important, and how it helps us create better games.

Let’s First Talk About What Art QA Does

Art QA specialists are the bridge between the artistic and technical sides of game development. They focus on checking the quality of a game’s visual elements. Their job is to make sure these elements meet the game’s technical needs and fit the artistic vision.

As Vladyslav Neskhozievsky, 3D Delivery Manager with 3D Art Direction and Tech Art Experience at Devoted Studios, explains,

I would define Art QA as a discipline that focuses on reviewing and ensuring the quality of a game’s artistic content.

Main Responsibilities of Art QA

The Skill Set of an Art QA Specialist

Art QA is more than just a role—it’s a specialized discipline that requires a combination of technical knowledge, artistic sensibility, and strong communication skills. While each studio may have its unique expectations for the role, there are a few essential skills that every Art QA specialist should possess:

🧰 3D Software Knowledge

Proficiency in 3D software is a must for Art QA specialists. Whether it’s Maya, 3ds Max, Blender, or another tool, being familiar with 3D creation packages ensures they can properly assess models and textures.

🖼️ Texture and Asset Review

Art QA specialists need to understand how textures are created, how they’re used in the game engine, and what common issues might arise. Adobe Photoshop, Substance Painter, and other tools are important for this.

🎮 Game Engine Knowledge

Art QA specialists should have a solid understanding of game engines like Unreal Engine or Unity. This knowledge helps them assess how assets will perform in the engine and spot potential issues early on.

🔎 Attention to Detail

Quality assurance is all about the details. Art QA specialists need to be meticulous and able to catch even the smallest of errors, whether it’s a wrong texture resolution, incorrect asset scale, or a performance issue caused by an asset.

💬 Communication Skills

Art QA specialists must effectively communicate feedback to artists, developers, and producers. Their role isn’t just about finding problems; it’s also about collaborating and ensuring that everyone on the team understands the feedback and how to act on it.

🧠 Problem-Solving Abilities

Art QA specialists should be able to think on their feet. Whether they need to suggest ways to fix a visual error or offer an alternative solution, problem-solving is a big part of their role.

Art QA in the Game Development Pipeline

Art QA isn’t a one-off task in the game development process—it’s an ongoing responsibility that spans the entire production cycle. At Devoted Studios, we integrate Art QA into every phase of development, from initial concept art through to the final stages of production.

📐 Pre-Production

During the early stages of the game development cycle, Art QA ensures that the assets created by the art team are aligned with the project’s technical and artistic requirements. This may include checking reference materials, initial concept art, and even early prototypes.

🛠️ Production

As the project moves into full production, Art QA specialists review the assets and ensure they meet the required standards. They work closely with the art team, providing feedback and tracking changes to make sure that everything stays on track.

✅ Post-Production

During the final stages of game development, Art QA is responsible for running through the final checklists. They check that everything is polished and ready for release, from ensuring the game runs smoothly on all platforms to making sure the art looks flawless.

Why Art QA Matters at Devoted Studios

At Devoted Studios, we know that Art QA is an important part of creating great games. As Volodymyr Chuyenko, 3D Delivery Manager with 3D Art Direction and Tech Art Experience at Devoted Studios, says,

Art QA is a technical specialist who works closely with the team of artists and the client. He monitors the quality of the content in technical terms, but can often provide artistic feedback from his side.

This means Art QA isn’t just about making sure the technical side of the game is perfect. It’s also about making sure the game’s visuals match the artistic vision. Art QA helps keep both the technical and artistic parts of the game in balance, which is key to creating a high-quality game.

At Devoted Studios, we believe this balance is crucial. Our Art QA specialists make sure that all the visual elements of the game meet both the technical requirements and the creative direction. This helps us deliver a game that looks amazing and works smoothly, meeting the high standards of our clients.

• Ensuring Seamless Integration: Whether we’re co-developing assets or working on a full development cycle, Art QA ensures that every asset we create integrates seamlessly into the game. This guarantees that the visual elements of the game align with the technical framework and the artistic vision.
• Optimizing Performance: Art QA helps make certain that the assets we create don’t just look good—they also perform well. Whether it’s making sure that assets are optimized for different platforms or that textures load correctly, Art QA specialists work to make sure that the game runs smoothly across all environments.
• Streamlining Communication: Art QA specialists act as a bridge between technical and artistic teams, ensuring that everyone is on the same page. By providing clear and actionable feedback, they help streamline communication and make sure that nothing is overlooked.
• Client Satisfaction: Ultimately, our goal at Devoted Studios is to provide our clients with games that meet their expectations and exceed industry standards. By drawing on the expertise of our Art QA specialists, we can make sure that the final product delivers both technically and artistically.

Devoted Studios Has Been a Trusted Partner for Co-Development and Full-Cycle Game Development

If you’re looking for a co-development partner, full-cycle game development, or game porting services, Devoted Studios is here to help. Our Art QA specialists, along with our skilled teams in co-development, full-cycle development, and porting, guarantee that every project meets the highest standards of quality.

We understand the importance of quality assurance and the value of having experts on your team who can verify that your assets and visual elements are flawless. With our Art QA specialists and dedicated development teams, we bring your vision to life—without compromise.

If you’re ready to take your game to the next level, contact Devoted Studios today. Let’s make something amazing together!

The indie game development world can be brutal, but for those who are passionate about their craft, it’s an adventure worth pursuing. 

Alx Preston, the CEO of Heart Machine, has experienced the highs and lows of indie game development, from crowdfunding to navigating budget constraints and working with publishers. 

In our SpeakIndie Episode #2, Alx shares his journey and thoughts on surviving as an indie developer today.

But First, Let’s Get to Know Alx!

Alxander Preston, nicknamed Alx Preston, is the founder and owner of Heart Machine, a video game studio. He serves as the creative director, head designer, and creator behind notable games like Hyper Light Drifter, Solar Ash, and Hyper Light Breaker.

Alx’s journey into the gaming world didn’t start with a formal background in the industry. In fact, his career began in other entertainment fields, including freelance art and design. It wasn’t until a few years into his career that he decided to take a leap into the gaming world, inspired by indie developers who dared to create their own paths.

I didn’t really want to do AAA because that seems boring or, you know, rough in a lot of ways that I wasn’t interested in. And indie stuff seemed compelling. But, you know, even when it was getting started, it seemed really brutal.

Alx co-founded Heart Machine and started making Hyper Light Drifter, a visually stunning 2D action RPG.

The Realities of Indie Game Development

Creating an indie game isn’t easy—especially as the stakes continue to rise. Alx openly admits that one of the most challenging parts of game development is managing deadlines, expectations, and ever-expanding budgets.

We were planning for Hyper Light Drifter to be a smaller project, but as we got into it, the scope exploded. We ended up needing far more resources than anticipated. It’s rare for an indie game to come in on budget and on time.

With a small team of nine, Alx and his team worked tirelessly to make the game a reality. As anyone in the industry will tell you, working in the gaming world means dealing with constant challenges—especially financial ones.

Crowdfunding and The Kickstart to Success

Heart Machine’s journey with Hyper Light Drifter was made possible thanks to a successful Kickstarter campaign. However, this wasn’t a smooth process. Alx initially aimed for a $30,000 goal, but the project required much more.

I thought $30,000 would be enough, but quickly realized that it wasn’t. We ended up reaching a much higher budget. And that’s part of the risk of crowdfunding—estimating how much you really need for a project and adjusting your expectations.

The Kickstarter campaign took nine months to prepare, and even after launching, the journey wasn’t easy. But crowdfunding wasn’t just about money—it was also about building a community. Alx was aware of the risks, but the rewards of seeing players support the game were unmatched.

Crowdfunding was the best opportunity we had. It was an incredible way to engage with our community and get the game off the ground.

Partnering with Publishers

As Heart Machine began to grow, Alx expanded his team and started working with larger publishers. Choosing the right publishing partner can make or break a project, especially when balancing artistic vision with the realities of business.

In the past, I worked with several different publishers on different projects. The key was finding partners who shared our vision and understood the challenges of creating something unique. Devolver Digital, for example, was a great fit for us because they understood our style.

Alx’s strategy was to work with different publishers on different projects, a move that allowed Heart Machine to diversify its opportunities and manage risks.

Managing the Indie Grind: Hard Conversations and Burnout

Indie game development often involves difficult conversations—particularly when it comes to budget extensions, timelines, and creative disagreements. Alx is no stranger to these hard discussions.

It’s all about transparency. When deadlines aren’t being hit or budgets are getting stretched, you have to be honest with yourself and your team. At times, I’ve had to ask for more time and money, even if it wasn’t an easy conversation.

But beyond the tough conversations, there’s an underlying passion that drives indie developers like Alx. Despite the hardships, the love for gaming and creating something new keeps them going.

Staying Agile in a Shifting Industry

As the gaming industry evolves, so too must indie developers. In 2024, the landscape is changing. Alx recognizes that while publishers are tightening their belts, there’s still room for smaller, unique projects that bring something fresh to the table.

Crowdfunding is still viable, but the environment has changed. In the past, indie developers could gain traction just by having a good pitch. But now, the market is flooded with games. It’s much harder to stand out.

One of the trends Alx has observed is that smaller, tactical games seem to be more popular. Games with unique mechanics and strong world-building are resonating with players, but they also carry significant risks.

Building a Strong Community

Community-building is a key element for indie developers. Alx is passionate about creating a relationship with his audience, whether through social media, fan art, or community engagement events like Discord, Gamescom, and Comic-Con.

We’ve built a really great community, and it’s important to continue engaging with them. I’ve seen some amazing fan art over the years, and that always motivates me,” says Alx.

The relationship between indie developers and their community is reciprocal. The fans support the games, but the developers also thrive on the energy and creativity that the community brings.

Future Trends in Indie Game Development

So, what does the future hold for indie game developers like Alx? While there’s still a lot of uncertainty in the industry, Alx believes that things will eventually return to some form of normalcy.

2024 has been a tough year, but I think 2025 will see a return to normalcy. Publishers will become hungrier for new projects, especially from indie developers. The landscape is shifting, but there’s still room for unique games,

As for Alx and Heart Machine, the journey continues with Possessor—a new game with a smaller, more focused scope. He’s learned valuable lessons from past projects, and his team is constantly innovating to create something special.

The Final Words: The Passion Behind the Games

Alx’s journey shows the resilience and passion required to survive in the indie game development world. It’s not an easy road, but for those who truly love what they do, the challenges are worth it.

Games are a passion-driven industry. It’s tough, but that’s what makes it special. You’re creating something that people will love and engage with, and that’s what keeps you going,

As the gaming industry continues to evolve, indie developers like Alx Preston will keep pushing boundaries, taking risks, and creating unique experiences that resonate with players. And for those brave enough to follow in their footsteps, the future of indie gaming is bright.

Video game development is changing fast. In 2025, the demand for high-quality games and faster development cycles is increasing the need for game development outsourcing. Developers are seeking ways to manage costs, access global talent, and get their games to market more quickly. 

As the video game industry continues to grow, outsourcing game development has become a key solution.

How Is the Outsourcing Market Growing in the Gaming Industry?

The global video game outsourcing services market was valued at USD 1062.2 million in 2023, and it’s set to keep growing. The market is expected to expand at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.9% from 2024 to 2030, reaching an estimated USD 1955.6 million by the end of the decade. This growth highlights how more game studios, both large and small, are turning to outsourcing to meet their goals, particularly in regions like the USA.

From another source, the Outsourcing Game Development Market is also expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.3% from 2025 to 2033, reflecting a steady demand across the industry. This trend is driven by the increasing need for data-driven insights and more efficient decision-making, which are becoming essential in game development.

So, why is outsourcing video game development gaining so much traction? The answer is simple: the pressure to produce better games quickly, all while managing limited resources. Here are some of the key trends shaping the outsourcing landscape in 2025.

🎨 Trend 1: The Demand for High-Quality Art Is Getting Higher

One of the biggest reasons developers are turning to game art outsourcing is to meet the rising demand for stunning visuals. As the gaming industry pushes for more realistic graphics and detailed environments, the role of talented artists has never been more important. But not every studio has the resources to hire full-time, top-tier art teams.

Outsourcing game artists is a smart solution. Game studios can tap into specialized talent from all over the world, getting top-quality artwork without breaking the bank. From character design to environmental art, outsourcing gives studios the flexibility to scale their teams as needed and access skills they might not have in-house.

🌍 Trend 2: Expanding Talent Pools for Accessing Skilled Developers Worldwide

In 2025, the need for skilled game developers is greater than ever. With the rise of complex games, new technologies like virtual reality (VR), and new genres, the talent pool has to grow. Game development outsourcing offers a way to access global expertise. Studios no longer need to be limited to local talent, which opens up opportunities for collaboration across borders.

At Devoted Studios, we work with over 3,000 professionals worldwide, including developers from Eastern Europe, artists in Southeast Asia, and designers in Latin America. This global talent pool gives game studios access to some of the best minds in the industry, making outsourcing a powerful tool for scaling projects and elevating quality.

🖼️ Trend 3: Outsourced Studios Bring Expertise in Specialized Art Styles

As the gaming industry grows, there’s more demand for specialized art styles. Game developers want to make their games look special and stand out. Outsourced studios can help with this because they have artists who specialize in different styles, like realistic 3D designs or simple 2D animations. This helps developers create the exact look they want for their game without having to train their in-house team in every style. While many studios prefer working with fewer external partners, specialized skills are a key factor in deciding who to collaborate with.

Outsourcing also allows developers to get high-quality work quickly. For example, if a studio needs a specific art style for a fantasy or retro game, they can turn to experts who already know how to create it. This means faster results and a more polished final product. By working with outsourced studios, developers can focus on other parts of the game, knowing the art will be taken care of by skilled professionals.

💰 Trend 4: Studios Are Seeking More Cost-Effective Solutions for Their Development

For many game developers, especially smaller studios or indie game developers, keeping costs in check is a top priority. Outsourcing video game development is one of the most effective ways to do this. By partnering with external studios or freelancers, developers can manage their budget more effectively while still producing top-tier games.

Outsourcing also gives studios the ability to manage specific aspects of the game, like coding, testing, or animation, without having to bring in additional full-time employees. This is particularly valuable when it comes to short-term projects or phases of development where specialized skills are needed temporarily.

⏱️ Trend 5: Studios Are Looking To Speed Up Development Cycles

In the gaming industry, the clock is always ticking. Players expect regular updates, and competitors are constantly releasing new titles. This pressure has led many developers to seek ways to speed up their development cycles. Outsourcing game development plays a major role here. By partnering with external teams, developers can divide their workload and speed up the production process.

Rather than managing every aspect of development in-house, studios can outsource tasks like QA testing, bug fixing, or level design, allowing in-house teams to focus on the core elements of the game. This way, games can be released faster and with fewer bugs or issues, which is key to staying competitive in a crowded market.

🕹️ Trend 6: Studios Are Adopting New Technologies

The gaming industry is constantly evolving with new technologies like augmented reality (AR), machine learning, and advanced graphics engines. In 2025, outsourcing game development is a key way to integrate these new technologies without the need to train an entire in-house team. External partners often have the expertise and experience to work with cutting-edge tools and technologies, making it easier for studios to stay ahead of the curve.

For example, a studio developing a VR game may require specialized developers who are skilled in VR mechanics and performance optimization. As the VR gaming industry continues to grow, with the consumer VR market expected to rise from less than $16 billion in 2024 to over $18 billion by the end of 2025, outsourcing these tasks lets the studio focus on other parts of the game. 

🤝Trend 7: Game Developers Are Shifting to Flexible Business Models for Better Results

Game outsourcing in 2025 is about creating flexible partnerships, not just hiring an external team. Many game studios are shifting away from traditional outsourcing models and are opting for co-development partnerships. These partnerships allow for more collaboration, making sure that both parties work together from the start of the project through to the final release.

Co-development outsourcing offers studios the chance to work closely with their external partners, aligning their vision with the development process. This collaborative approach leads to better communication, fewer misunderstandings, and ultimately, a better game.

The Role of Devoted Studios in Game Development Outsourcing

As the demand for game development outsourcing grows in 2025, we at Devoted Studios are ready to meet these growing needs. We are a co-development service provider specializing in full-cycle game development services worldwide. Whether it’s art, design, programming, quality assurance, or even porting games, we have the expertise to handle every aspect of game development.

By partnering with us, game developers gain access to our extensive experience and knowledge, helping make sure their projects stay on track, within budget, and on time. As a trusted outsourcing partner, we are here to help you streamline the game development process.