DEVOTED STUDIOS BLOG

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.

The gaming industry has come a long way, growing bigger and more exciting with each passing year. New technologies, platforms, and genres keep opening up fresh opportunities for developers and publishers. Players now want to enjoy their favorite games on whatever device they have—consoles, PCs, or mobiles. This means there’s a growing demand for games that can be played on multiple platforms.

This shift in player expectations has made game porting an essential part of the gaming landscape. Developers are realizing the potential of expanding their games to different platforms to reach more players and tap into new markets. The global games market, including mobile and other platforms, generated more than $184 billion in revenue in 2023, growing by +0.6% year-over-year, and is projected to grow to $205 billion by 2026. This just shows how important it is for developers to port games to multiple platforms in order to tap into all that potential.

Reference: blog.udonis.co

However, before you jump into the process of porting games, there are some important steps you need to take. In this article, we’ll walk you through a simple checklist of things to consider before starting video game porting and how to make sure your game is ready for the switch.

Game Porting Is Not as Simple as Just Pressing a Button

First, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page. Game porting is the process of adapting a video game so that it works on a different platform or operating system. For example, taking a game originally developed for PC and making it run on a console like the PlayStation or Xbox. It could also mean moving your game from one operating system, like Windows, to another, like macOS.

This is a big task, but it can be worth it. A well-executed game porting service can help you reach a wider audience, increase your game’s lifespan, and bring in more revenue. 

Now, let’s take a closer look at how we, at Devoted Studios, handle game porting and how we can help game studios successfully port their games.

🕹️ Evaluate the Target Platform

Before we get started, we take the time to fully understand the platform you want to port your game to. Every platform—whether it’s a console, mobile device, or new operating system—comes with its own unique hardware, software, and features. We make sure to research these differences so we can plan the best way to adapt your game.

We also take a close look at your game’s codebase. Is it built to be flexible for the new platform? Does it rely on platform-specific features that might need adjusting? By identifying these potential challenges early, we can make sure everything runs smoothly as we move forward with the porting process.

🛠️ Set Up the Right Tools

Once we know what we’re dealing with, we focus on setting up the right development tools. This includes ensuring we have the proper software development kits (SDKs) and any platform-specific tools needed for the job. For example, porting to a console requires access to that platform’s development environment, which we make sure is ready to go.

We also set up essential tools like cross-platform libraries and version control systems to keep everything running smoothly. These tools help us stay on track and make sure your build machine is working properly.

💻 Modify Code and Assets

With the tools in place, we start making the necessary changes to your game’s code so it’s compatible with the new platform’s API. This step is essential—your game needs to communicate with the new system properly. We optimize the code for performance, ensuring it runs smoothly on the new platform.

We also look at the game’s assets like textures, audio, and models, then we modify them as needed. Each platform has its own set of requirements. For example, high-end consoles might need high-resolution assets, while mobile devices require smaller ones. We make sure everything fits the new system’s capabilities.

🎮 Adapt UI/UX and Features

UI (user interface) and UX (user experience) are important when porting games. Every platform has different input methods, like touch screens on mobile devices, controllers for consoles, or mouse and keyboard for PCs. We make sure the UI works smoothly with these input methods by adjusting menus, buttons, and control schemes as needed.

We also check how your game looks across different screen sizes and resolutions. What works well on a mobile device might need adjustments for a larger TV screen or gaming monitor. 

🚀 Test and Optimize Thoroughly

Testing is a big part of our process. We test every aspect of the game to make sure everything works as it should on the new platform—no bugs, no crashes, no performance issues. From the gameplay itself to sound and graphics, we make sure everything is polished.

During testing, we also focus on optimizing the game for the target platform. For example, mobile devices often need optimization for battery life, while consoles may require adjustments to smooth out graphics or improve load times. We fine-tune every detail to make sure the game performs well across all systems.

📝 Meet Certification and Compliance Requirements

Before launch, we make sure the game meets the platform’s certification requirements and complies with all legal guidelines. This includes checking the game’s age rating, ensuring compliance with platform terms, and making any necessary adjustments for regional or cultural requirements.

Let Devoted Studios Handle Your Game Porting

Porting games can be complex and time-consuming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Game porting services, like Devoted Studios, can help you handle everything from technical adjustments to performance optimization. Our services have the expertise needed to make sure that your game is ported smoothly and successfully.

We offer comprehensive game porting services to seamlessly transition your game across platforms. Our expert team specializes in adapting your game’s content and functionality to ensure it performs optimally on new systems. We tailor our approach to each project, using our creativity and technical expertise to deliver high-quality results on time and within budget.

When working with Devoted, you can expect:

• Certification Guaranteed: All submissions are approved on the first attempt.

• Optimized Performance: We meet high performance standards without compromising quality. For example, we successfully adapt VR games to flat-screen gameplay, fine-tune controls, UI, and balance for the best experience.

Games We’ve Successfully Ported

FNAF: SECURITY BREACH

VR survival horror video game developed by Steel Wool Studio

👥 TEAM ROLE

• Ported the game to Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, and XBox, with significant technical and visual optimization. 
• Porting and post-release bug fixing and patches

🏆 OUR ACHIEVEMENTS

• Achieving stable 30 FPS on Switch, using up to 1024 textures, and tuning Light and Shadows to provide quality gameplay.
• Stabilizing performance on the past gen consoles (60 fps avg) while bringing in visual improvements to hit quality comparable with PC version Ultra settings.

FNAF: HELP WANTED

VR survival horror video game developed by Steel Wool Studio

👥 TEAM ROLE

• Porting to Switch
• Optimization of game for PS4, PS5
• Porting of DLC for Xbox One, Xbox X/S, Switch

🏆 OUR ACHIEVEMENTS

• Achieving stable 30 FPS on Switch, using up to 1024 textures,  and tuning Light and Shadows to provide quality gameplay.
• Stabilizing performance on the past gen consoles (60 fps avg) while bringing  in visual improvements to hit quality comparable with PC version Ultra settings.

OPEN ROADS

Adventure mystery-thriller video game

👥 TEAM ROLE

• Tech art and lighting for porting to Switch
• Optimization process for Switch
• Lighting setup and baking
• Scene dressing

🏆 OUR ACHIEVEMENTS

• Creating an optimized tree system for the Nintendo port to achieve 30fps.
• Relighting and post-processing the scene to enhance the overall experience and mood.

RISK OF RAIN 2

Escape a chaotic alien planet by fighting through hordes of frenzied monsters

👥 TEAM ROLE

• Co-dev & Porting to Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox X|S.
• Integration of all network features.
• Rendering optimization.
• Support for DLC.

🏆 OUR ACHIEVEMENTS

• Boosted FPS performance by 57% on all levels.
• Introduced Multiplayer to PS and Xbox platforms, featuring 4-player coop.
• Prepared the game to certification. As part of “Survivors of the Void” DLC
• DLC certification passed on all platforms from the 1st try.

We understand that game porting comes with its set of challenges, from adapting to different hardware specifications to optimizing performance across various platforms. These tasks can be daunting for developers looking to expand their game’s reach. 

At Devoted Studios, we’re here to streamline this process. Our experienced team is skilled at navigating these complexities, ensuring that your game retains its quality on every platform. We’re committed to helping you captivate a broader audience without sacrificing performance or the gaming experience.

Stats That Speak for Themselves

The need for game porting services has never been more critical. For instance, in 2024, a significant jump in developers focusing on PC games has been observed, climbing from 66% to 80% within a year. This spike may be tied to the growing popularity of platforms like Valve’s Steam Deck, which, while not officially listed as a development option, was noted by 44% of developers under the ‘Other’ category as a key area of interest.

Moreover, the mobile games market is set to grow significantly. By 2025, it’s expected to earn about $126.10 billion, and by 2029, this number could go up to $156.60 billion. The number of people playing mobile games is also expected to increase, reaching 2.4 billion by 2029. Right now, about 26.6% of people play mobile games, and this is likely to rise to 29.8% by 2029. This big growth shows just how important it is to adapt games for different platforms, like mobile devices, to reach more players.

7 Years of Game Porting Excellence: Our Proven Process

After seven years in game development and porting,we’ve figured out a process that works really well. Our approach mixes solid knowledge, new ideas, and careful planning to make game porting easy and effective.

Our way of managing projects is based on agile principles, which means it’s adaptable and efficient. We carefully plan every part of the process, from the first idea to the final checks. This ensures we don’t miss anything and everything gets done right.

Our team is filled with skilled people like QA engineers and programmers who are really good at what they do. They are led by our experienced project managers who make sure everyone works together well.

Our goal is to make the game porting process clear and simple for you, so you can focus on creating great games that players will love on any platform.

How Do Our Game Porting Services Work?

This Is What Our Development Stages Look Like

🕐 Estimation and Planning

Before we start any porting project, we begin with careful estimation and planning. Our team assesses the project’s scope by reviewing the game’s existing code and planning any updates or new features needed. We also determine the level of platform support required, ensuring that the game will function properly on the new platform.

 

🚀 Onboarding and Build Launch

Once planning is complete, we move to the onboarding and build launch stage. Here, we focus on getting the initial build of the game up and running on the target device. Our team works through any issues that prevent the game from reaching level 1 functionality, and we begin optimizing the game based on the initial performance feedback.

 

🐣 Alpha Stage

In the alpha stage, our main goal is to optimize the game’s most critical performance updates. We work on removing gameplay blockers that hinder progress and start integrating basic platform features. This stage is crucial for ensuring that the core game mechanics work flawlessly.

 

🧪 Beta Stage

During the beta stage, we conduct a second round of optimizations and begin fine-tuning the game. This includes fixing any bugs that were identified in the alpha stage and making further adjustments to game functions and gameplay to ensure a seamless experience. We also work on platform features that enhance the game beyond its original scope.

 

✅ Release Candidate (RC) Stage

Finally, we reach the release candidate stage, where our focus shifts to bug fixing and final tuning based on feedback. Our developers perform thorough checks and adjustments to refine gameplay and ensure that the game meets all platform-specific requirements. We also provide optional TRC support if the game has already been submitted to platform holders, focusing on compliance and resolving any outstanding issues.

Throughout these stages, our team uses advanced tools and follows a structured workflow to ensure that every game we port meets our high standards for quality and performance. By breaking down the porting process into these detailed stages, we maintain control over the project and deliver results that satisfy both our clients and the end-users.

 

What Will You Receive As Our Client?

Fully Ready Submissions	You will receive only top-quality, fully tested submissions that are ready to integrate into your game. We make sure every delivery has passed our stringent internal review before it reaches you.
Time Tracking	Our project managers use the Tempo Plugin with JIRA to meticulously track the time spent on each task by our artists and developers. You’ll get regular updates showing the progress and status of these tasks.
Status Reports	We keep you well-informed with weekly or bi-weekly sprint demos and retrospectives. These meetings provide you with detailed updates on the project’s progress, its current status, and any areas for improvement. We also welcome any questions or feedback during our video game porting collaboration.

 

Games We’ve Ported

FNAF: SECURITY BREACH

VR survival horror video game developed by Steel Wool Studio

👥 TEAM ROLE

• Ported the game to Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, and XBox, with significant technical and visual optimization. 
• Porting and post-release bug fixing and patches

🏆 OUR ACHIEVEMENTS

• Achieving stable 30 FPS on Switch, using up to 1024 textures, and tuning Light and Shadows to provide quality gameplay.
• Stabilizing performance on the past gen consoles (60 fps avg) while bringing in visual improvements to hit quality comparable with PC version Ultra settings.

FNAF: HELP WANTED

VR survival horror video game developed by Steel Wool Studio

👥 TEAM ROLE

• Porting to Switch
• Optimization of game for PS4, PS5
• Porting of DLC for Xbox One, Xbox X/S, Switch

🏆 OUR ACHIEVEMENTS

• Achieving stable 30 FPS on Switch, using up to 1024 textures,  and tuning Light and Shadows to provide quality gameplay.
• Stabilizing performance on the past gen consoles (60 fps avg) while bringing  in visual improvements to hit quality comparable with PC version Ultra settings.

 

FNAF: HELP WANTED 2

👥 TEAM ROLE

• Porting to Meta (Oculus) Quests 2, 3, Pro
• Porting VR to flat for PC and PS5, Xbox, Switch

🏆 OUR ACHIEVEMENTS

• Successfully optimizing it to comply with the high-performance expectations of the platform, without compromising quality.
• Successfully adopting VR game to flat-screen gameplay, designing new controls, UI and game balance.

 

FNAF: HELP WANTED 2. Pico Porting

Porting of Five Nights At Freddy’s from PC to Neo 3 and Pico 4 VR sets.

👥 TEAM ROLE

Porting of the game from Meta (Oculus) to Neo 3 & Pico 4 Pico 4 Ultra VR headsets (VR to VR version)

🏆 OUR ACHIEVEMENTS

• Ensured clear visibility on project coordination 
• and successful on-time delivery
• Integrated custom achievements screen
• Optimized RAM, CPU, and GPU for performance and visuals
• Adapted UI and integrated main platform features

⚡️ OUR CHALLENGES

• Coordinating multiple stakeholders (our team, Byte Dance, Steel Wool)
• Addressing unique Pico device hardware and software features

 

OPEN ROADS

Adventure mystery-thriller video game

👥 TEAM ROLE

• Tech art and lighting for porting to Switch
• Optimization process for Switch
• Lighting setup and baking
• Scene dressing

🏆 OUR ACHIEVEMENTS

• Creating an optimized tree system for the Nintendo port to achieve 30fps.
• Relighting and post-processing the scene to enhance the overall experience and mood.

 

RISK OF RAIN 2

Escape a chaotic alien planet by fighting through hordes of frenzied monsters

👥 TEAM ROLE

• Co-dev & Porting to Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox X|S.
• Integration of all network features.
• Rendering optimization.
• Support for DLC.

🏆 OUR ACHIEVEMENTS

• Boosted FPS performance by 57% on all levels.
• Introduced Multiplayer to PS and Xbox platforms, featuring 4-player coop.
• Prepared the game to certification. As part of “Survivors of the Void” DLC
• DLC certification passed on all platforms from the 1st try.

 

Risk of Rain 2 Port Development Journey

Network Optimization	Introduced 4 players coop to PS & Xbox versions.
Rendering Optimization	Stabilized & Improved performance for all game versions
Performance Improvement	Increase performance by 57% across all levels
DLC Addition	Clear platform certification on first submission

 

We’re especially proud of

Successful port of Gearbox’s Unity-powered roguelike Risk of Rain 2, well-received by players.	We optimized shaders, scenes, post-processing, and materials,boosting performance by 57% across all levels.	DLC addition “Survivors of the Void” cleared platform certification on first submission, strengthening our partnership with Gearbox.

 

SPELLBREAK

Is a battle royale game that combines magic, roguelike, and RPG elements

👥 TEAM ROLE

• Full Cycle Porting to Nintendo Switch
• Optimize assets for Nintendo Switch compatibility
• Create platform-appropriate UI for Nintendo Switch 
• Ensure seamless integration of core content and features during parallel development

🏆 OUR ACHIEVEMENTS

• Spellbreaker’s port was simultaneously shipped along with the original release, without delays and in quality. 
• Deep optimizations of CPU and GPU performance, allowing smooth gameplay on Switch.

 

To wrap things up…

Porting games is what we do best at Devoted Studios. We take the hard parts of making a game work on different platforms and handle them for you. Our team makes sure your game plays well and looks great, no matter where it’s played.

Los Angeles, the land of stars, sunshine, and… video games? That’s right. While LA is mostly known for its movies and TV shows, the city is also home to some of the most exciting AAA game development companies out there. These studios create the kinds of games you lose yourself in for hours (or let’s be honest, days) at a time. For real, LA’s gaming companies are making waves in the industry.

So, if you’re looking to learn about where your favorite AAA games come from, or if you’re a developer scouting for the best game development services, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s take a stroll through the world of AAA game development in Los Angeles, California.

What Exactly Is AAA Game Development?

You’ve probably heard the term “AAA” tossed around when people talk about big-budget games. But what does it really mean? Simply put, AAA game development refers to high-quality games with a massive budget and a whole lot of talent behind them. Think Uncharted, Call of Duty, The Witcher—you know, the kind of games that come with stunning graphics, an immersive story, and a team of hundreds working together. These are the heavy-hitters that set the bar for the entire industry.

Los Angeles is home to some of the best in the business, offering a wide variety of game development services. So, if you’re into gaming or you’ve ever wondered how these big-name titles come to life, it’s all happening here.

Why Los Angeles, California?

So, why is LA the place to be for game development? Well, aside from being the entertainment capital of the world, it’s a city that thrives on creativity and tech innovation. It’s home to some of the most talented designers, animators, programmers, and storytellers, making it the perfect breeding ground for top-tier games. Plus, with all the tech conventions, gaming expos, and creative communities, there’s no shortage of opportunities for collaboration.

In a nutshell, Los Angeles is the place where gaming companies come to make magic happen. Now, let’s dive into the studios that are leading the charge.

Top AAA Game Development Companies in Los Angeles, California

Mythical Games 

Mythical Games is a rising star in the world of game development, and they’re making waves from their LA headquarters. Known for their innovative work with blockchain and digital assets, Mythical is pushing the boundaries of gaming by creating unique player-owned economies within their games. Their titles like Blankos Block Party bring together the fun of traditional gaming with new technology, offering players a chance to truly own in-game assets.

Mythical Games is particularly recognized for their creative approach to monetization and game economies, working with blockchain technology to enhance player experiences. They provide full game development services, including design, 3D modeling, programming, and more. Mythical Games is definitely a company to keep an eye on as they continue to explore the intersection of gaming and blockchain.

Riot Games

Riot Games isn’t just about games; it’s a whole phenomenon. Based in LA, they’re the creators of League of Legends, the world’s most popular multiplayer battle arena game. But they’re not just known for their games—they’ve mastered the art of esports, too. Riot’s games are highly competitive, with a huge focus on multiplayer experiences and community-building.

Their development services include everything from game design and 3D modeling to server management and esports event production. Riot has completely transformed the way we look at competitive gaming, and their commitment to innovation is clear in every game they touch.

Elodie Games

Elodie Games is a promising game development studio based in Los Angeles, known for its creative approach to storytelling and gameplay. The studio focuses on crafting engaging and immersive experiences for players, combining unique narratives with cutting-edge technology. With a team of passionate developers, designers, and artists, Elodie Games is making waves in the gaming industry by prioritizing innovation and player-centric design.

Though relatively new to the scene, Elodie Games has quickly gained recognition for its fresh ideas and dedication to quality. The studio works on a variety of genres, with a special emphasis on games that blend adventure, exploration, and meaningful interactions. With its Los Angeles location, Elodie Games is positioned to collaborate with a wide network of creative professionals and studios, helping it stay at the forefront of the evolving gaming landscape.

Electronic Arts

Electronic Arts (EA) is one of the most prominent AAA game development companies with a significant presence in Los Angeles. Known for creating blockbuster franchises like FIFA, Madden NFL, and Battlefield, EA’s LA studio plays a pivotal role in bringing these high-quality games to life. 

The studio is involved in all stages of game development, from concept and design to production and post-launch support. It is also known for its innovation in gameplay mechanics, stunning graphics, and realistic character animations, especially through the use of motion capture technology. EA’s Los Angeles team works closely with other EA studios worldwide, ensuring the final product meets the high standards expected from a global leader in gaming.

Lightspeed LA

Lightspeed LA, part of the global Lightspeed Studios group, is making its mark in the AAA game development space. With a focus on blending technology, creativity, and gameplay, Lightspeed LA is pushing the envelope in terms of both game quality and player experience. The studio’s portfolio includes a mix of innovative titles across different genres, often featuring cutting-edge graphics and immersive worlds.

Lightspeed LA brings a fresh perspective to game development, collaborating closely with other teams across the globe to create experiences that are not just fun but also technologically forward-thinking. They offer a full suite of game development services, from early-stage concept creation to final delivery, ensuring that every game they produce stands out in the crowded gaming landscape.

Respawn Entertainment

Respawn Entertainment, founded by the minds behind Call of Duty and Medal of Honor, has quickly become one of the most influential game development companies in Los Angeles. Respawn is known for creating Titanfall, Apex Legends, and Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, among others. They specialize in making games that mix both single-player storytelling and multiplayer action in the most satisfying ways.

Respawn’s development services range from innovative game mechanics to motion capture and character modeling. They’re known for their smooth gameplay and incredible world-building, making them a go-to studio for developers looking to create memorable experiences.

Game Development Services: What These Game Companies Do

So, what do these top-tier game development companies actually do? Let’s break it down simply. These companies have a full process behind every game, from the first idea to the final product. Here’s what happens inside the walls of these studios.

Concept & Design: Creating the Game’s Core Idea

It all starts with the concept. In-house teams brainstorm and decide on the type of game they want to create. This includes the game’s theme, characters, and core mechanics. Once they’ve figured out the main idea, designers start working on how the game will look and feel, including the story, gameplay, and style.

Programming & Development: Making the Game Work

The programming team writes the code that makes everything work. This is where they build the core gameplay, like how players move, interact with objects, and how the game reacts. It’s all about making sure the game runs smoothly and everything functions as it should.

Art & Animation: Creating the Visuals

In-house artists and animators create everything you see in the game, from characters to the environment. They design the game’s world, characters, and items, then bring them to life with animations. Whether it’s a character jumping or an explosion going off, these teams make sure it looks amazing and feels realistic.

Sound: Adding the Audio Magic

Sound designers work in-house to create the sound effects, background music, and voice acting that bring the game to life. The sound is crucial for setting the mood and making the gameplay feel immersive.

Quality Assurance (QA): Testing the Game

In-house QA teams play the game repeatedly to make sure there are no bugs or glitches. They test the gameplay, controls, and all features to ensure everything works perfectly. If something doesn’t work right, they report it to the developers to fix.

Launch & Updates: Bringing It to Players

When the game is ready, the studio handles the launch. They make sure everything is set for players to enjoy, whether it’s preparing the game for release on various platforms or fixing any last-minute issues. After the launch, many companies also provide in-house support by releasing updates or patches to fix any bugs and improve the game.

Let’s Wrap It Up

Whether you’re a die-hard gamer or an aspiring developer, Los Angeles is the place where all the gaming magic happens. From Naughty Dog’s heart-wrenching storytelling to Insomniac’s high-energy action, these AAA game development companies are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the gaming world. If you’re looking for game development services, LA has you covered. With top-tier talent and some of the best studios in the business, it’s clear why this city remains at the forefront of the gaming industry.

So next time you’re playing your favorite game, just remember: it might’ve been made right here in LA. And who knows? Maybe you’ll even get to join the action behind the scenes one day.

Let’s be real, game development is no small feat. You’ve got your idea, your team, and your vision, but as your project grows, it can quickly feel like there’s a mountain of work you didn’t sign up for. 

Deadlines get tighter, budgets get smaller, and you realize you need more hands on deck to bring your game to life. And that’s where we, Devoted Studios, come in. 

At Devoted, we’re not just another outsourcing company. We’re your co-developer service provider, here to help carry the load, take some of the stress off, and make your project feel less like a rollercoaster and more like a smooth ride to success. 

From engineering the technical part to co-developing new features and even stepping in with a full development team, we’ve got the skills and experience to turn your ideas into reality. The best part? We don’t just do the work for you. We integrate seamlessly with your team, become an extension of your crew, and get as excited about your game as you are. 

So this time, we’re going to walk you through all things why you’ll want us, Devoted, by your side.

🤝 What We Offer at Devoted Studios

At Devoted Studios, we don’t just do one thing. We offer a full-on game development support team that’s ready to jump in, make your life easier, and help turn your game into the masterpiece you know it can be. So, here’s a quick look at what we can do for you.

🔗 Seamless Integration (Like We Were Always Meant to Be Here)

Ever try to add someone to your team and they don’t go along with the job? Yeah, it’s awkward. But with us, it’s different. We make sure we fit right into your existing workflow, like we’ve been working together forever. Whether we’re helping out with a specific part of the project or joining the team for the long haul, we blend in without skipping a beat. 

Your workflow? It stays uninterrupted. Our efforts? Perfectly synced.

⚙️ The Engines & Technologies We Use

At Devoted Studios, we’ve got the best in the biz at our disposal to make sure your game turns out exactly how you envision it (but, you know, better). From ultra-realistic graphics to super-smooth gameplay, the engines and technologies we use are part of the magic that makes your game pop. So, what are we working with?

🤖 Unity

Unity is our go-to for creating games that are as versatile as they are visually stunning. Unity has the power to make your game shine on virtually any device. With features like real-time lighting, integrated physics engines, and a robust asset store, Unity helps us create immersive worlds that feel alive. It’s our secret sauce for developing everything from casual mobile games to more complex, high-fidelity experiences. No matter where your players are, we make sure your game is running smoothly, looking great, and keeping them hooked from start to finish.

🔧 Unreal Engine

Unreal Engine is the dream machine for those big, bold ideas. If you want a game that looks and feels like a AAA title, this is where we go to cook our dishes. Unreal is used globally by developers to craft next-gen experiences, from photorealistic visuals to mind-blowing VR and AR worlds. With its advanced rendering capabilities, physics systems, and blueprint scripting, we can bring even the most ambitious artistic visions to life. Whether it’s a fast-paced action game, a breathtakingly beautiful open world, or a mind-bending VR experience, Unreal Engine helps us push the limits of what’s possible.

🏅 Some of Our Featured Projects

🚀 What Makes Us Stand Out: Why Devoted Studios is Different

We’re not just another outsourcing company—we’re your dedicated partner in game development. We stand out because of the experience, values, and people that make us who we are. At Devoted Studios, it’s not just about getting the job done—it’s about doing it right. Here’s what makes us different:

🏆 Experience

With years of industry know-how, our team is a powerhouse of seasoned professionals who know what it takes to manage large-scale projects. We’re not here to just “get it done” — we’re here to elevate your game. From debugging to programming to design, we have the skills to handle everything, ensuring your game reaches its full potential and delivers top-notch results. Quality is at the heart of everything we do, and it shows in every project we take on.

🔍 Transparency

We believe in keeping things open and honest. No surprises, no confusion. From the very first brainstorm to the final launch, we prioritize transparent communication to keep you in the loop at every stage. We understand how important it is to have reliable support and quick responses, so we’re always available for consultations or assistance whenever you need it. We’re here to make sure you feel confident and in control throughout the entire process.

💡 Talent Management

Getting the right people on the job makes all the difference. That’s why we’ve built an advanced system to find the best talent for your project. With access to over 1,400 vetted professionals from around the globe, we can match you with the perfect experts who have the right skills and experience to bring your vision to life. Talent is key, and we’ve got the network to deliver.

🌍 Diversity

We’re a team that speaks many languages (literally and figuratively). With team members from 7+ countries and fluency in 5+ languages, our diverse background gives us a unique understanding of cultural nuances. This enriches the gaming experience and ensures your game resonates with players from all walks of life. Plus, working with such a variety of perspectives makes us better, smarter, and more creative when solving problems and developing ideas.

💪 We’re Basically Part of Your Team 

You know how when you bring in an outsider, it sometimes feels like they’re just there but not really there? Yeah, we’re the opposite of that. We dive right in, roll up our sleeves, and become a part of your team. We’re here to help and we’re with you every step of the game development process.

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