The recent wave of layoffs in the gaming industry, which has affected over 20,000 workers, including 900 employees from Sony’s PlayStation division, has sparked discussions about the future of game developers. Former President of Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, Chris Deering, has shared some controversial advice for those facing unemployment in the sector. During an interview on the My Perfect Console podcast, Deering suggested that laid-off developers should take a year off, find affordable living arrangements, and consider working as Uber drivers until the industry bounces back.
Deering, who played a key role in launching the original PlayStation and PlayStation 2, drew parallels between the current job cuts and the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized the importance of staying connected to the industry during this downtime, warning that disengaging entirely could make it harder to re-enter the field once the storm has passed. While some have criticized Deering’s advice, arguing that collective action is needed to protect workers’ rights, others see his perspective as a pragmatic approach to navigating the challenges of unemployment in the gaming sector.
The layoffs at companies like Sony, Microsoft, and Unity have been attributed to the need to streamline resources and focus on core business operations. While Deering acknowledged the pain caused by these job cuts, he remains hopeful about the industry’s ability to recover swiftly. As an advisor at Cudo Ventures, he reassured those impacted by the layoffs that having skills in the gaming industry is not a life sentence of poverty or limitation. Despite the challenges, Deering’s message of resilience and optimism offers a glimmer of hope to game developers facing uncertain times.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, adaptability and perseverance are becoming increasingly important for professionals in the field. By staying informed, remaining connected, and exploring alternative opportunities during periods of unemployment, game developers can position themselves for success in a rapidly changing industry. While the road ahead may be uncertain, Deering’s advice serves as a reminder that weathering the storm and staying proactive can lead to new opportunities and growth in the future.