Part 9/10:
The success of indie and small-studio games—highlighted by reviews and sales—confirms that meaningful, authentic, and innovative experiences trump gimmicks and high budgets. The rise of titles like Blueprints and Clare Obscure illustrates that talented, resourceful developers can produce critically acclaimed masterpieces without massive funding.
Industry Reflection and Moving Forward
As the award season approaches, the nominations are likely to feature predominantly indie and AA titles, marking a clear shift away from the entrenched AAA industry. This new era emphasizes storytelling, passion, and creative freedom, offering players diverse and memorable gaming experiences at accessible prices.