Ustwo Games is making a notable transition by adopting a contractor-heavy staffing model on April 30, 2026, in London. This shift aims to enhance flexibility and reduce development costs as the studio pivots from mobile gaming to a focus on PC and console platforms.
The decision comes after Maria Sayans, the studio’s leader, acknowledged the need for lower development budgets—previously ranging between £7 million and £10 million for mobile titles. Currently, Ustwo employs about 30 people, increasing to 40 during the production of Monument Valley 3. Yet, Sayans emphasized that future growth will rely heavily on contractors.
Key facts:
- Ustwo Games is transitioning from a traditional employee model to utilizing contractors for greater flexibility.
- The studio’s historical budget for mobile games has been between £7 million and £10 million.
- Currently, they have about 30 permanent staff members, which swells to 40 during peak production times.
- Sayans pointed out that their reliance on contractors was minimal during the height of Monument Valley 3’s development.
This strategic pivot aligns with Ustwo’s exploration of higher game pricing models—an approach that may not sit well with all players. Sayans remarked that while some may resist this change, core fans might perceive little difference between pricing points of £5 and £10. The intention is clear: pricing games higher could ensure sustainability for the team while allowing room for later discounts.
As Ustwo moves away from mobile platforms, the focus sharpens on PC gaming and console-first releases. This decision reflects broader industry trends where indie titles are increasingly making their mark beyond smartphones. However, it raises questions about how these changes will affect player engagement and market competition.
What remains uncertain is how effectively Ustwo can implement this contractor model while maintaining the quality and creativity that fans expect. The balance between flexibility and artistic integrity will be crucial in their upcoming projects.
