Zynga Profits Drop, Analysts Hammer it

Yeah, it appears the bloom is off the Roseville.

Of course after a run-up like it had it couldn't last forever, the question really being what happens next.  Unfortunately what happens next would involve gambling or a change of management, neither of which may sit well with people (as I suspect a management shakeup would be NASTY).

I also think that with Facebook's IPO coming up, Zynga is getting a harsher look.

As for employment options, well, you've heard enough complaints that it might not be your cup of tea.  I'm more wondering how Zynga is going to react to this – they could overreact, and that could make it pretty miserable to work at.

Steven Savage

 

 

Doublefine Raises Triple Their Goal With Kickstarter

Double Fine, Tim Schafer use Kickstarter to raise $1.3 million for a new game. Yes, Million. Game developers take note – though obviously we're not all Tim Schafer, this may be a viable future model.

TAKEAWAYS:

  • $1.3 million. Damn.
  • This is money used for the game, not counting profits from the game. Though there will be some money lost to swag, preorder issues, and others, it's still quite an impressive achievement. Or in short, more money to be made.
  • Yes, this may be hard to apply to people starting out, but if you worked on a big game and got enough rep, or built up, Kickstarter may be a viable way to raise money.
  • Everyone is watching this.

Steven Savage

Game Career News 2/7/2012

The bad: EA appears to be having layoffs in Vancouver.  It doesn't sound too big, but still bad for those losing their jobs, and it might be worth seeing if this is the start of something bigger.

The good: Ignition games raised $5 million for a realistic driving game.  I'm sure you could help them spend the money, so send a resume.

(Also, is it just me, or do driving games never go out of style no matter what?)

Steven Savage