Former God of War Exec Calls for Shift to Fun Over Spectacle in Gaming

October 21, 2025

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Meghan Morgan Juinio, a former executive at Santa Monica Studios, has called for a shift in the blockbuster gaming industry, emphasizing the need to prioritize fun over spectacle. Juinio, who contributed to the God of War series, expressed concerns about the sustainability of high-budget game development during a recent event.

The gaming industry has faced significant challenges, including the loss of over 45,000 jobs since the COVID-19 pandemic. As major publishers like EA, Activision, and Ubisoft grapple with rising costs, Juinio believes they may need to explore smaller-scale projects to remain viable.

Juinio stated that the current model for blockbuster games is unsustainable, highlighting the impact of high development costs and recent layoffs, particularly on the U.S. West Coast. She suggested that while major franchises may continue, there will likely be a push towards more mid-tier games from larger publishers.

God of War

She pointed to the success of smaller games, such as Clair Obscur and Peak, which have thrived on modest budgets. Juinio emphasized that the focus should be on creating enjoyable experiences, regardless of the game’s length or production scale.

Despite the challenges of visibility and distribution in the gaming market, Juinio maintained that the core experience must be fun. She argued that even the most visually stunning games are not worth the investment if they fail to engage players.

As the industry evolves, it remains uncertain whether major publishers can successfully pivot to creating more accessible and enjoyable games. The recent success of low-budget titles suggests a potential shift in player preferences, raising questions about the future of high-budget game development.

Sources:

Pcgamer