Tomas Sala, the solo developer behind the city builder Bulwark Evolution: Falconeer Chronicles, is calling for a change in how the gaming industry supports indie developers. In a recent interview with GamesRadar+, he discussed the financial challenges many indie studios face, particularly due to the 30% cut taken by platforms like Steam.
Sala has criticized this fee as a “relic” and advocates for its reduction, arguing that such financial pressures can hinder creativity and innovation in the indie sector.
Acknowledging the reality that many first-time indie games are likely to fail commercially, Sala believes it is crucial to create more pathways for developers to learn from their setbacks. He emphasizes that each failure provides valuable lessons that can lead to better future projects.
According to Sala, a developer who experiences failure with one game is more likely to produce a superior second game, and this iterative process can ultimately result in the emergence of successful AAA studios over time.
Sala also highlights the responsibility of major gaming platforms like Valve and Xbox to invest more in indie developers. He argues that these platforms have a vested interest in nurturing new talent and fresh ideas, as relying solely on established intellectual properties can lead to stagnation in the industry.
Without a continuous influx of innovative developers, the gaming environment risks becoming dominated by a few major franchises, which could limit diversity and creativity.
In his own work, Sala’s Bulwark Evolution: Falconeer Chronicles exemplifies his ability to innovate and adapt within the gaming industry. Set in the same universe as his previous game, The Falconeer, this title shifts from aerial combat to city building. Since its launch in March, the game has received over 700 reviews on Steam, with a notable 81% positivity rating, demonstrating that success is achievable even in a challenging market.
Ultimately, Sala advocates for a cultural shift within the gaming industry that embraces failure as a necessary part of the creative process. By fostering an environment that encourages experimentation and learning, the industry can nurture a new generation of developers with diverse voices and innovative ideas. Sala envisions a future where indie games thrive, contributing to a dynamic gaming ecosystem that benefits both players and creators.
