FromSoftware president Hidetaka Miyazaki recently addressed the challenging landscape of the video game industry, marked by significant layoffs, by emphasizing his commitment to the company’s expansion.
The year 2024 commenced on a rocky note following widespread layoffs at prominent entities such as Unity, Xbox, Twitch, and Discord, painting a bleak outlook for the industry’s future.
Speaking to IGN, Miyazaki acknowledged the severity of the situation, describing it as “harrowing,” yet refrained from delving into specifics. “I think it’s difficult for me to understand the exact circumstances there. I won’t speak to those in specifics,” he remarked.
Despite the turmoil, FromSoftware, known for its iconic titles like Dark Souls and Elden Ring, has displayed resilience following its acclaimed 2022 Game of the Year. Miyazaki contrasts the prevailing industry narrative, envisioning boundless opportunities for the Tokyo-based developer.
He acknowledges the necessity for decentralization in the creative process as the studio expands, recognizing that he cannot singularly occupy the director’s chair, a role he has predominantly held since Armored Core 4.
Reflecting on FromSoftware’s trajectory, Miyazaki notes the emergence of talented developers within the studio who have risen to directorial roles, exemplified by recent projects such as Armored Core VI. “We have several of these up and coming directors who we’re able to delegate these projects to, and we’re able to have multiple projects on the go at once,” he elaborated.
In light of the industry’s challenges, Miyazaki envisions a FromSoftware where games are helmed by a diverse array of directors, not solely himself. He perceives this juncture as an opportunity for continuous growth, nurturing talent, and sustaining the release of compelling titles.
FromSoftware’s departure from tradition was evident when Miyazaki entrusted the direction of 2023’s Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon to Masaru Yamamura. With plans for multiple new projects following the success of Elden Ring and Armored Core 6, Miyazaki acknowledges the inevitability of empowering other developers to assume pivotal roles as the studio’s portfolio expands.
