‘Not enough to make a good game anymore’: Singapore game developers flail as pressures, risks intensify

Dr Xu of NUS said more focus should be placed on higher-value activities, such as creative leadership, game design, technology development, IP management and regional business operations.

One possible approach is a hub-and-spoke model, with Singapore serving as the centre for such functions while selected production activities are undertaken in lower-cost locations such as Malaysia, Indonesia or Vietnam, she said.

Assoc Prof Dillon said that instead of competing with lower costs elsewhere, Singapore would benefit from focusing on becoming “the place where the most valuable decisions are made and the most sophisticated technical work is done”.

He also highlighted Singapore’s education system and ability to produce skilled and adaptable talent as something that cannot be offshored.

Industry observers and players alike also called for the development of locally-owned IP, which would help Singapore retain greater economic value from completed products in the long term.

This includes potential revenue from licensing, sequels and related products for successful games, said Dr Xu.

To this end, Assoc Prof Dillon said it was encouraging that the local industry has already produced games that are “both distinctly Singaporean and also globally exportable”.

For instance, The Gentlebros’ Cat Quest franchise has won international recognition, while fellow local developer Springloaded has built a following with Let’s Build a Zoo and Let’s Build a Dungeon.

Asian Salad Studio’s Mr Neo noted a strong sense of mutual support within Singapore’s vibrant community of independent developers.

The Gentlebros’ Mr Wong said that smaller studios like his have their strengths too. For instance, they are able to pivot and move faster to leverage on ongoing events, unlike bigger studios where major decisions can take weeks, he said.

“All in all, I would still say it is feasible even in today’s climate,” said Mr Wong. 

“There are still opportunities and the potential for success – the bar is simply higher now.”