In a bold move to break through the clutter of existing showcases, over 30 independent game studios have joined forces to bring forth the Triple-I Initiative. This collaborative effort aims to provide a platform for studios like Mega Crit Games, Red Hook Studios, Heart Machine, and Evil Empire to directly engage with their players. The brainchild of Evil Empire, this initiative was conceptualized as a no-frills, straight-to-the-point showcase devoid of any hosting segments, advertisements, or sponsorships. According to Benjamin Laulan, COO of Evil Empire, the goal is to deliver 45 minutes of pure gaming content without any distractions.
When questioned about the need for another showcase amidst the plethora of virtual presentations, Bérenger Dupré of Evil Empire shed light on the rationale behind the Triple-I Initiative. He revealed that after focusing solely on live ops for Dead Cells over the past five years, the studio was eager to unveil their new projects. Timing constraints and the desire for autonomy in unveiling their games played a significant role in the decision to create a dedicated showcase. Echoing this sentiment, Chris Bourassa of Red Hook Studios emphasized the importance of taking control of their narrative and reaching their audience through innovative means.
One of the defining characteristics of the games featured in the Triple-I Initiative is their placement in the industry’s “in-between” space. These games, labeled as triple-I, occupy a niche that is often overlooked by traditional showcases. As Dupré pointed out, the showcase season typically caters to big first-party titles, awards, and niche genres, leaving a void for games with a slightly larger scope and greater visibility. The term “triple-I” serves as a fitting descriptor for these games that fall between indie and triple-A titles, offering a unique blend of creativity and commercial viability.
The concept of “triple-I” games challenges the conventional definitions of indie titles in the gaming industry. While some categorize indie games based on their lack of a publisher, others consider the size and scale of the development team. This ambiguity led to the emergence of the Triple-I Initiative, providing a platform for studios to showcase their projects that defy traditional classifications. By adding a few extra “I’s” to the term indie, the organizers aim to capture the essence of these innovative and boundary-pushing games.
While the specifics of the games to be featured in the Triple-I Initiative remain shrouded in secrecy, the organizers have promised a showcase filled with impactful and noteworthy announcements. Each studio participating in the event is committed to delivering trailers and content that will leave a lasting impression on players. With the premiere scheduled for April 10, gaming enthusiasts can look forward to a showcase that celebrates creativity, experimentation, and the spirit of independent game development.
The Triple-I Initiative represents a bold step towards redefining the landscape of gaming showcases. By uniting independent studios under a common banner, this initiative offers a platform for innovative and boundary-pushing games to shine. As the countdown to the premiere begins, all eyes are on the Triple-I Initiative to see how these studios will captivate audiences and carve out a new path in the world of independent game development.
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