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What cheer, friends? Hear ye of the most wondrous Renaissance that doth grace game development! Metaplay’s newest report, The Game Development Renaissance, uncovers why 2025 is shaping up to be a transformative year for the games industry.
Drawing on a survey of 150 Unity developers and C-level execs, combined with expert interviews, our latest report provides a comprehensive look at the trends driving this new era of progress. The Game Development Renaissance is more than just a moment of growth - it’s a rethinking of what’s possible. From smarter tools to leaner teams, we capture the shifts that are redefining how games are built, scaled, and played.
Is the games industry on the cusp of a brighter future?
Our data paints an optimistic picture for the games industry in 2025. According to our survey, 77% of respondents anticipate significant industry growth, driven by increased funding opportunities, strategic acquisitions, and fewer studio closures.
Much of this optimism stems from the expected success of live service games. An impressive 75% of developers are optimistic that live service games will generate more revenue than ever before. For 38% of respondents, LiveOps stands out as the most critical feature for a game’s success. Metaplay has supported developers for several years in providing regular updates and events, and dynamic content and LiveOps will continue to be key for studios in 2025.
Tooling is key to the next phase of growth
As we’ve always championed at Metaplay, high-quality tooling is foundational to game development success. Our report shows that 75% of developers expect a greater availability of advanced tools in 2025. Nearly half (48%) of developers are planning to adopt external technologies to enhance their workflows and deliver better results.
Informed by opinion from game industry leaders
Michelangelo, Raphael, and Da Vinci: no Renaissance would be complete without its visionaries, and this one is no exception. Our report features insights from leading industry voices, including John Wright, Michail Katkoff, and Riku Rakkola. You’ll find their insights inside with commentary and in-depth Q&As shedding light on their thoughts toward the mobile games industry in 2025.
Are you ready for the Game Development Renaissance?
The Game Development Renaissance is not just a trend - it’s a movement reshaping the entire industry.
Developers now have access to tools and strategies that empower them to build smarter, scale faster, and deliver unforgettable player experiences.
As we begin this new Renaissance, Metaplay is committed to supporting developers every step of the way, from your first line of code to ongoing LiveOps and player support.
The Renaissance is here. Are you ready?
Download The Game Development Renaissance Report here or collect a physical copy at our booth (stand P01) at Pocket Gamer Connects London from January 20-21.
