Category: Gaming

  • Xbox Series X and S Sales Below 30 Million, Insider Reports

    Xbox Series X and S Sales Below 30 Million, Insider Reports

    Key Takeaways

    1. Analyst Welfare estimates Xbox Series X and S sales at around 37 million units, while leaker KeplerL2 suggests the number is below 30 million.
    2. AMD’s fiscal report indicates over 100 million current-generation consoles sold, with PS5 sales accounting for 75 million and Steam Deck sales around 4 million, leaving an estimate of 21 million Xbox consoles.
    3. Conflicting sales data from manufacturers and publishers contributes to confusion, with Take-Two Interactive reporting at least 94 million current-gen consoles sold, including around 27 million Xbox units.
    4. VGChartz reports over 32 million Xbox Series X|S consoles sold, indicating a potential middle ground between the conflicting estimates.
    5. The PlayStation continues to lead in console sales, and analysts expect the gap to widen as Xbox struggles in the market.

    Recently, different insiders have provided varying estimates on how many Xbox Series X and S consoles have been sold throughout their lifetime. Analyst Welfare stated that Microsoft has sold roughly 37 million units globally. However, due to a slowdown in sales, some gamers are skeptical about this number. Notably, the well-known leaker KeplerL2 argues that a more precise estimate is actually below 30 million units.

    Conflicting Reports on Sales

    KeplerL2’s claim is based on a fiscal report from AMD for the fourth quarter of 2024, which mentioned that over 100 million current-generation consoles had been sold. The report tracks how many chips are sold for the PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and even the Steam Deck. Earlier in 2025, Sony announced that it had sold just over 75 million PS5 consoles by the end of 2024. By taking 75 million away from the 100 million total and estimating around 4 million Steam Deck sales, it leaves 21 million units sold for Xbox consoles.

    Confusion Among Estimates

    A lot of the misunderstanding comes from conflicting information shared by manufacturers and game publishers. In February 2025, Take-Two Interactive announced that at least 94 million current-gen consoles had been sold by the end of November 2024. The PS5 made up 65.6 million of those sales as of September. If we factor in additional sales up to the end of November, Microsoft could have sold around 27 million Xbox Series X|S consoles.

    KeplerL2 concludes that the most hopeful estimation for Xbox console sales is even lower than Welfare’s 37 million prediction. However, the reality might be somewhere in between the two figures. VGChartz gathers data from various retail sources for its rankings. Its latest report shows that over 32 million Xbox Series X|S consoles have been tracked in sales.

    The Future of Console Sales

    Fans closely follow KeplerL2 due to his leaks about consoles under development, including specifications for the PS6. Because of this, some of his critics believe that analyzing sales might not be his strongest suit. Nevertheless, it is evident that PlayStation’s lead over the struggling Xbox consoles is likely to widen in the coming months.

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    Xbox Series X and S Sales Below 30 Million, Insider ReportsXbox Series X and S Sales Below 30 Million, Insider Reports

     

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  • LeapFrog Launches LeapMove: Motion-Based Game System for Kids at $70

    LeapFrog Launches LeapMove: Motion-Based Game System for Kids at $70

    Key Takeaways

    1. LeapMove is a cube-shaped gadget that connects to a TV, allowing kids to learn and stay active using body movement as a game controller.
    2. The device includes 25 pre-loaded motion-based educational games for children aged 4 to 7, covering topics like shapes, math, spelling, and problem-solving.
    3. LeapMove can save up to three user profiles and features a camera shutter for privacy, as it does not connect to the internet.
    4. The device is priced at $69.99, making it a more affordable option compared to competitors like the $249 Nex Playground, which requires a monthly subscription.
    5. LeapMove can be easily set up with an HDMI connection and USB power, and it can be placed on or below the TV as long as there is a clear line of sight.

    LeapFrog has revealed the LeapMove, a cube-shaped gadget that connects to a television, offering kids an engaging way to learn and stay active. This device features a built-in camera, functioning similarly to the Xbox Kinect, where the child’s body acts as the game controller.

    Features and Usage

    LeapMove comes pre-loaded with a variety of motion-based educational and entertaining games, specifically aimed at children aged 4 to 7. The device connects to the TV using HDMI and includes a USB port for power. It can be placed either on top of a TV or below it, as long as there is a clear line of sight to the child.

    Games and Learning Benefits

    With 25 pre-installed games, LeapMove teaches kids about shapes, math, spelling, phonics, and problem-solving abilities. Additionally, there are games purely for enjoyment that require kids to move their arms and legs. Depending on the specific game, kids either show up on the screen themselves or control an avatar. LeapFrog mentions that LeapMove can save up to three user profiles.

    Privacy and Connectivity

    LeapFrog assures users that the device does not connect to the internet, alleviating concerns about privacy. However, it does have a camera shutter to cover the lens when not in use. The only time the LeapMove needs to be connected to a computer is when a parent wants to add more games using the LeapFrog Connect software.

    LeapMove is priced at only $69.99, making it significantly more affordable than competing products like the $249 Nex Playground, which requires a monthly subscription. The Nex Playground offers access to a game library that features popular titles such as Barbie, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Peppa Pig, How to Train Your Dragon, Kung Fu Panda, and Elmo, with new games added every month.

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  • BenQ XL2540X Plus: 24.1″ TN Gaming Monitor with 280Hz Refresh Rate

    BenQ XL2540X Plus: 24.1″ TN Gaming Monitor with 280Hz Refresh Rate

    Key Takeaways

    1. High Refresh Rate: The BenQ Zowie XL2540X+ features an impressive 280Hz refresh rate, enhancing performance for esports and competitive gaming.

    2. Color Coverage: It offers 100% sRGB and 95% DCI-P3 color coverage, although its TN panel may limit overall color accuracy.

    3. Gaming Features: The monitor includes several gaming-centric features such as Black eQualizer, Color Vibrance, and Auto Game Mode, along with an S Switch control puck.

    4. Adjustability and Connectivity: It allows height adjustments up to 155mm and includes multiple connectivity options, such as three HDMI 2.0 ports and one DisplayPort 1.2.

    5. Target Audience: The XL2540X+ is designed specifically for competitive gamers, not suited for content creators or casual gamers seeking better color depth or viewing angles.

    BenQ has introduced the Zowie XL2540X+, a brand new gaming monitor aimed at esports and competitive players. This 24.1-inch monitor belongs to the XL series and maintains a Full HD (1920×1080) resolution with a TN panel, but it boosts the refresh rate to an impressive 280Hz, which is an upgrade from the previous 240Hz models in the same range.

    Brightness and Color Features

    The monitor comes equipped with a W-LED backlight and boasts a brightness of 320 nits, along with a static contrast ratio of 1000:1. It offers 100% sRGB and 95% DCI-P3 color coverage, but since it has a TN panel and 8-bit color depth, its color accuracy might not be its best feature. The main attraction is its speed: it has a fast TN panel, a pixel pitch of 0.279mm, 1ms response times, and Adaptive-Sync support, making it ideal for games like CS2, Valorant, and other fast-paced shooters.

    Additional Features and Accessories

    The XL2540X+ includes several features typical of BenQ’s Zowie series, such as an S Switch control puck, Black eQualizer, Color Vibrance, Auto Game Mode, and game title preset profiles. Additionally, it comes with a DisplayPort cable, an HDMI cable, an S Switch, and a shielding hood included in the package.

    Design and Connectivity Options

    In terms of design, this monitor allows for height adjustments of up to 155mm, as well as swivel and tilt options, although it doesn’t have pivot functionality for vertical orientation. Connectivity wise, it features three HDMI 2.0 ports, one DisplayPort 1.2, and a 3.5mm audio-out jack. For mounting purposes, it supports the standard 100x100mm VESA bracket and includes a removable stand that has Kensington lock support.

    Even with the focus on speed and performance, this monitor isn’t tailored for content creators or casual gamers who prioritize color depth or wide viewing angles. While it offers a 170° horizontal and 160° vertical viewing range, the limitations of the TN panel are evident, which is typical for a monitor designed specifically for low latency and quick response times.

    BenQ has yet to reveal global pricing or availability details, but the monitor already appears with a model year of 2025. It’s expected this will be a refreshed option for those still using the older XL2540 or XL2546 models from past years.

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    BenQ XL2540X Plus: 24.1BenQ XL2540X Plus: 24.1BenQ XL2540X Plus: 24.1

     

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  • New Free Action-Puzzle Game Trends on Steam Within Days of Launch

    New Free Action-Puzzle Game Trends on Steam Within Days of Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Popularity: Wires And Whiskers is currently fifth on Steam’s “New & Trending” list, with a peak of 158 concurrent players since its release on August 1, 2025.

    2. Positive Reception: The game has received 74 reviews, with 87% being positive, achieving a “Very Positive” overall rating.

    3. Gameplay: Players control a lab-engineered gerbil in a robotic exosuit, focusing on teamwork in a post-apocalyptic trench world.

    4. Co-op Focus: Designed for two players, the game emphasizes collaboration to navigate puzzles and defeat enemies.

    5. Unique Mechanics: Features magnetic interactions for player positioning, along with a distinct art style that combines character animations and vibrant backgrounds.

    Besides big game launches, Steam often adds free games to its collection, and Wires And Whiskers is one of the latest additions. Unlike some other recent freebies, this game has quickly risen in popularity after its release.

    Trending on Steam

    Currently, Wires And Whiskers holds the fifth position on the “New & Trending” list on Steam. According to SteamDB, it has reached a peak of 158 concurrent players, which is impressive for a game that debuted on August 1, 2025. These numbers suggest that players are interested in this new title.

    Positive Reception

    The game has garnered a total of 74 reviews, with 87% of them being positive. This gives Wires And Whiskers a “Very Positive” rating overall. It is classified as a local co-op game that focuses on teamwork, making it a fun option for friends.

    In the game, players take on the role of a lab-engineered gerbil equipped with a robotic exosuit. The objectives include navigating a post-apocalyptic trench world, solving environmental puzzles, and battling waves of mutated foes. It supports controllers well (8BitDo Ultimate 2C is $25.49 on Amazon) and is primarily designed for two players, who must collaborate to progress through the game.

    Unique Gameplay Mechanics

    The gameplay also features an interesting mechanic that involves players manipulating their positions. Specifically, there’s a magnetic interaction that allows players to either attract or repel each other. This is essential for advancing through levels and solving complex puzzles.

    Another standout feature of Wires And Whiskers is its unique art style. The game has clear character animations, and the lively backgrounds contrast nicely with the mechanical elements of the world. If you want to know more about this free game, check out the video below.

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    New Free Action-Puzzle Game Trends on Steam Within Days of Launch

     

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  • Retroid Offers Free Returns and Replacements for Pocket Flip 2 Users

    Retroid Offers Free Returns and Replacements for Pocket Flip 2 Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Retroid Pocket Flip 2 launched in March 2025 with two models: Snapdragon 865 and Dimensity 1100.
    2. Users praised the device’s performance, battery life, and display, but some reported issues with cracked hinges.
    3. Retroid offers free replacements for users with hairline cracks in their Pocket Flip 2 hinges.
    4. Affected users can initiate the replacement process by emailing customer service for a pre-paid shipping label.
    5. Retroid is investigating the hinge issue and may offer the Retroid Pocket 5 as an alternative for those dissatisfied with the Pocket Flip 2.

    The Retroid Pocket Flip 2 launched in March 2025, serving as a foldable clamshell handheld for gaming. This Android device comes in two models: one powered by Snapdragon 865 and another with the Dimensity 1100, which started shipping in July.

    Positive Feedback and Build Concerns

    Many users have given the handheld favorable reviews, highlighting its performance, battery life, and display quality. However, some have reported issues related to its construction, specifically cracked hinges. In response, Retroid has proposed a solution for those affected.

    Replacement Process for Affected Users

    As per a company announcement, users who find a hairline crack in their Pocket Flip 2 hinge can receive a replacement without any extra charge. To initiate this process, they need to email the customer service team at [email protected], and they will receive a pre-paid shipping label to return the defective device. Once the carrier receives the returned unit, a new one will be sent out.

    Ongoing Investigation and Alternatives

    The company’s post noted that they have not been able to recreate the cracked hinge problem in their factory despite conducting several tests. Nonetheless, they are taking user complaints seriously and aim to resolve these issues for those affected. Additionally, Retro Game Corps reported that Retroid might offer users a Retroid Pocket 5, currently available on Amazon for $259, as a substitute for those who prefer not to keep the Pocket Flip 2.

    While it isn’t clearly stated that the replacement is limited to customers who bought directly from Retroid, those who purchased through third-party sellers might want to reach out to them for guidance on obtaining a replacement.

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  • Battlefield 6 Design Director Aims for Realism, No Crossover Skins

    Battlefield 6 Design Director Aims for Realism, No Crossover Skins

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Date: Battlefield 6 is confirmed to be released on October 10, 2025.

    2. Realistic Visuals: The game will focus on grounded, realistic visuals, reminiscent of Battlefield 3 and 4.

    3. Cosmetic Choices: Unlike competitors, Battlefield 6 will avoid flashy crossover skins and prioritize authentic military-themed cosmetics.

    4. Response to Competitors: Shashank Uchil criticized the extravagant skins in Call of Duty, emphasizing a return to the franchise’s gritty identity.

    5. Ambitious Goals: EA aims to attract 100 million players, positioning Battlefield 6 as a spiritual successor to its earlier successful titles.

    At a multiplayer gathering in London, Shashank Uchil, the design director for Battlefield 6, confirmed earlier rumors about the game’s release date being set for October 10, 2025. He also shared some insights into the kinds of cosmetics that might be included in the game. Uchil mentioned that EA’s new tactical FPS will not include flashy crossover skins, instead focusing on a more genuine visual experience.

    Grounded Approach to Design

    In his conversation with DBLTAP during the event, Uchil emphasized the need for Battlefield 6’s visuals to be realistic, similar to what was seen in Battlefield 3 and 4, remarking, “It has to be grounded, it’s going to be like this. That’s what Battlefield 3 and Battlefield 4 were – it was all soldiers, on the ground. It’s going to be like this.”

    A jab at Competitors

    While discussing the game, Uchil threw shade at the recent operator skins from Call of Duty, even referencing Nicki Minaj. He stated, “I don’t think it needs Nicki Minaj. Let’s keep it real, keep it grounded.” This statement indicates clearly that Battlefield 6 will not include extravagant cosmetic items, but rather skins that align with the game’s fundamental identity and charm. The game aims to recapture the essence of the gritty and realistic feel that fans associate with Battlefield 3 and 4, often regarded as the franchise’s peak era.

    Call of Duty’s Direction

    In contrast, Call of Duty has recently embraced a wide array of crossover skins, incorporating characters like Snoop Dogg, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and others, which has left some fans feeling disheartened by the “Fortnite-ification” of the series.

    However, this doesn’t mean that Battlefield 6 will lack cosmetics entirely. A post by CharlieIntel on their official X account hinted at a statement from the developers, claiming, “The thing we can say, we are a military shooter in modern times.”

    Future Expectations

    Additionally, EA’s Vice President, Vince Zampella, shared his thoughts on the Friends Per Second podcast, describing the game as a “spiritual successor” to Battlefield 3 and 4. He noted, “Battlefield is a two-decade-old franchise with some of the biggest, most iconic games. When Battlefield hits and does things right, it goes bonkers, right? What would the next spiritual successor kind of look like? That’s where we started.”

    EA has set an ambitious goal of attracting 100 million players to Battlefield 6. The Battlefield community appears to be optimistic about a faithful yet updated version of the franchise’s best years. Fans will have to wait and see when the game is released on October 10, 2025, for Xbox Series S|X, PlayStation 5, and PC.

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  • BioShock Remake Paused as 2K Focuses on BioShock 4 Issues

    BioShock Remake Paused as 2K Focuses on BioShock 4 Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. The BioShock remake has been indefinitely shelved by 2K Games as of early 2025, disappointing fans.
    2. BioShock 4 has been in development for over ten years and is facing significant challenges without a release date.
    3. The original BioShock, released in 2007, is considered a landmark title in narrative-driven first-person shooters.
    4. Fans were hoping for a true remake to enhance graphics and gameplay, following a less substantial remaster in 2016.
    5. The development of BioShock Infinite faced its own complications, suggesting a pattern of challenges in the BioShock series.

    In a letdown for gamers, the beloved BioShock series will not see its remake anytime soon as it’s been ‘shelved.’ Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier shared the news that 2K Games has quietly suspended the remake of the original 2007 BioShock title as of early 2025.

    Developmental Setbacks

    This news arrives alongside unsettling updates regarding BioShock 4, which has reportedly been in the works for over ten years now. Anonymous sources speaking to Schreier, due to a potential NDA, indicated that the remake was intended to bridge the story between BioShock Infinite released in 2013 and the forthcoming BioShock 4. Sadly, 2K Games has opted to put the project on hold indefinitely behind closed doors.

    The Original Game’s Legacy

    The original BioShock launched on August 21, 2007, and is celebrated as one of the finest narrative-driven first-person shooters of all time. It introduced players to the submerged city of Rapture and combined RPG elements with Plasmids, revolutionizing the FPS genre with its engaging storyline.

    A remake could have featured high-res textures, detailed Splicers, Big Daddies, and more, alongside ray tracing technology, which would’ve revived Rapture, letting a new generation of players experience the ultimate BioShock adventure.

    Fans’ Reactions

    While BioShock did get a remaster in 2016 as part of BioShock: The Collection, many fans were left wanting more, as a true remake could’ve revitalized the series and provided something exciting to hold them over until BioShock 4 is released. Gamers expressed that a remake would have been phenomenal since Rapture is built for ray-traced graphics.

    The BioShock series, which includes three games: BioShock (2007), BioShock 2, and BioShock Infinite, has sold more than 43 million copies globally, with BioShock Infinite alone moving 11 million copies.

    Looking Ahead

    As for BioShock 4, it appears to be stuck in development hell since 2019 at Cloud Chamber, facing numerous challenges without any announcement or release date in sight.

    It seems familiar patterns are emerging, as the development of BioShock Infinite also faced its own share of complications. Initially, gameplay features like Elizabeth’s timeline tears and various plot details involving Comstock and Columbia were completely removed from the final version.

    Even though gamers won’t see a BioShock remake, there remains a glimmer of hope for the series with BioShock 4 still in the works.

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  • AOC Unveils 144Hz Gaming Monitor Priced at $73

    AOC Unveils 144Hz Gaming Monitor Priced at $73

    Key Takeaways

    1. AOC has launched a budget-friendly gaming monitor called the 24G51F in China.
    2. The monitor features a 23.8-inch IPS display with 1080p resolution, HDR10 support, and 94% DCI-P3 color coverage.
    3. It offers a peak brightness of 300 nits, a contrast ratio of 1500:1, and a 4 ms GtG response time.
    4. The design includes thin bezels and a modern stand with VESA mounting support.
    5. The price is CNY 529 (approximately $73), with no current information on international availability.

    AOC has introduced a new budget-friendly gaming monitor in China, named the 24G51F. It features a 23.8-inch IPS display that supports HDR10 and MBR sync. According to the company, this monitor provides 94% DCI-P3 color coverage, 8-bit color output, and a 4 ms GtG response time, making it suitable for a variety of uses.

    Display Specifications

    The 1080p display boasts a peak brightness of 300 nits and a contrast ratio of 1500:1. It also includes AdaptiveSync, which is expected to improve the gaming experience. Regarding the connectivity options, they are basic yet align with the monitor’s price point. Specifically, the AOC 24G51F comes with the following I/O configuration:

    Design and Build Quality

    In terms of build, the new AOC monitor has a fairly typical design, although the bezels on the sides and top are quite thin. The stand has a modern look and supports VESA mounting (Huanuo VESA dual monitor stand currently priced at $49.99 on Amazon).

    Pricing and Availability

    As for the cost, the AOC 24G51F was launched in China with a price of CNY 529, which is approximately $73. There is currently no information on when this budget gaming monitor will be available outside of China, but the company is recognized for releasing most of its products globally. More details can be found in the complete specifications sheet included below.

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    AOC Unveils 144Hz Gaming Monitor Priced at $73

     

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  • Nintendo Sells 6 Million Switch 2 Consoles Amid Mario Kart Success

    Nintendo Sells 6 Million Switch 2 Consoles Amid Mario Kart Success

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Switch 2 sold 5.82 million units in June, making it Nintendo’s fastest-selling handheld.
    2. The console surpassed 6 million units sold shortly after launch, outperforming Sony’s PS5 in initial sales.
    3. Mario Kart World, the launch title for Switch 2, sold 5.63 million units in its first month.
    4. The original Nintendo Switch sold 0.98 million units in Q1, bringing total sales to 153.1 million units.
    5. Nintendo forecasts sales of 15 million Switch 2 units by March 2026, having already met 40% of this target.

    Nintendo has released its latest financial results, revealing impressive details about the sales of the Switch 2. In June alone, the Switch 2 achieved remarkable success by selling 5.82 million units, making it Nintendo’s fastest-selling handheld. After its launch on June 5, the Switch 2 sold 3.5 million units within just four days.

    Sales Milestones

    With sales data only up to June 30, it’s clear that the Switch 2 has surpassed the 6 million mark, breaking records in multiple markets right from the start. This performance stands in contrast to Sony’s PS5, which sold 3.5 million units in its first four weeks and 4.5 million in the first seven weeks following its launch.

    Game Sales

    Additionally, the launch title for the Switch 2, Mario Kart World, closely followed the console’s success, achieving sales of 5.63 million units in its first month. This statistic indicates that nearly every new Switch 2 owner bought the game, despite its inclusion in various Mario Kart Bundle Editions. The software sales overall have also shown strength, with 8.67 million units sold in the first month.

    Original Switch Performance

    The original Nintendo Switch continues to attract buyers, with 0.98 million units sold in Q1. This pushes the total sales of the Nintendo Switch to 153.1 million units, nearly catching up to the Nintendo DS’s 154 million units, which remains Nintendo’s all-time best-selling handheld.

    Nintendo’s financial health has flourished along with the launch of the Switch 2. For Q1 FY 2025, net sales reached ¥572 billion, equivalent to $3.8 billion, marking an astonishing 132% increase year-on-year. Operating profits saw a rise of 4.4%, totaling ¥56.8 billion or $377 million. However, ordinary profit experienced a decline of 15.6%, down to ¥95.8 billion, or $636 million.

    Future Projections

    The debut of the Switch 2 has been notably strong, and Nintendo has maintained its sales forecast of 15 million units by March 2026. To provide context, the company has already met 40% of its conservative sales target thus far. With the holiday season approaching, which generally accounts for 40-50% of yearly console sales, it’s highly likely that the sales goal will be easily met.

    Nintendo’s presence in the gaming market is as strong as ever, with both long-time and new fans excited about the upgraded hardware that comes eight years after the original Switch. Production is said to be increasing, positioning the company to reclaim its strength in the gaming industry.

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  • Ideal Team Size for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is 33 Members

    Ideal Team Size for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is 33 Members

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sandfall Interactive will not expand its staff despite the success of their game, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, which sold 3.3 million copies shortly after release.
    2. The studio operates with a small in-house team of 30 to 40 members, emphasizing efficiency and a hybrid approach by outsourcing roles like QA, marketing, and localization.
    3. The hiring process focused on raw talent rather than experience, conducting over 200 interviews to build the team.
    4. Many team members, including the VFX artist and character designer, were recent graduates, bringing fresh perspectives to the project.
    5. Sandfall’s success demonstrates that a small, dedicated team can thrive in the gaming industry, challenging the notion that larger teams and budgets are necessary for success.

    Breakout Turn-based RPG Clair Obscur: Expedition 33’s French Studio Sandfall Interactive is not planning to increase its staff even after the game’s incredible success in the gaming world. Released in April, the game sold 3.3 million copies by May 2025, as the studio confirmed on its official X account. However, this number does not include a significant number of players using Xbox’s Game Pass subscription service.

    Insights from the CTO

    In a talk with Automation, Tom Guillermin, the Chief Technology Officer and Lead Programmer, discussed the studio’s remarkable achievements and what keeps the team motivated. “I think that, for now, I’d prefer working as a small team. I’m not sure how big an ideal team would be, but when it comes to making a full-price turn-based RPG, I believe the team we have now is just the right size,” he said.

    CEO’s Efficiency Perspective

    The compact nature of their operation aligns with the views of Guillaume Broche, the CEO and Creative Director of the studio. He expressed that smaller studios tend to be more efficient. He stated, “We had five people working on environments, two on the story. I think around three to six people worked on the cinematics. The music was done by four people.” In total, the in-house team consisted of 30 to 40 members, while external partners managed QA, marketing, and localization. The credits reveal that numerous roles like animation and performance capture were outsourced.

    A hybrid approach with a small in-house team and various outsourced roles enabled Sandfall to excel, creating a critically acclaimed modern turn-based RPG that garnered praise from prominent figures in the gaming industry, including Hideo Kojima. The director of Death Stranding 2: On the Beach remarked, “They only have like 33 team members and a dog. That’s my ideal when I create something with a team.”

    Focus on Talent Over Experience

    Broche emphasized that the team’s success stems from their careful hiring process, which emphasized raw talent rather than previous experience. He mentioned in the interview, “We conducted over 200 interviews in order to gather the first team members.”

    To illustrate how fresh the team was to the industry, the studio’s VFX artist and character designer were recent college graduates. Additionally, the beautiful soundtrack was crafted by a talented artist, Lorien Testard, who was selected from SoundCloud by Sandfall.

    Broche added, “Since they had very little experience working, they also didn’t have many existing notions of what work was supposed to be like, which I think is a good thing, because they managed to adapt to our peculiar work style.”

    Conclusion

    Sandfall’s achievements in an industry that often prioritizes efficiency and large budgets with extensive teams speak volumes. Currently, Sandfall remains ambitious despite its small size. This proves that a close-knit team or a small but dedicated studio can significantly impact the gaming industry with the right vision and direction.

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