Former Assassin's Creed director Alexandre Amancio argues that video game development should focus on smaller teams. He believes this shift can improve efficiency and project outcomes.
Amancio suggests smaller teams for game design
States AAA development can't fix problems with more people
Management-heavy structures can hamper productivity
Film industry offers a model for gaming teams
Temporary crews work better for projects
Netflix is developing an Assassin's Creed adaptation
Alexandre Amancio, who once directed Assassin’s Creed, now believes that the future of video game development hinges on smaller teams. In a recent conversation, he pointed out that trying to fix issues in big-budget game projects by merely increasing personnel often leads to inefficiencies.
Challenges of Large Game Teams
Amancio highlights that when a project surpasses about 100 people, it creates an imbalance. The management-to-worker ratio skyrockets, leading to bureaucracy. This can actually slow down production rather than enhance it.
He elaborates that adding team members often bogs down the efficient workers, creating “variable noise” that disrupts productivity.
Learning from Film Industry Models
In comparing video games to films, Amancio notes the film industry has successfully transitioned to smaller, focused teams. Each crew is tailored to a specific project, allowing for flexibility.
Film scripts remain stable during production
Games evolve over time, requiring adaptable teams
He advocates for outsourcing for specific needs
Proper timing leads to the right crew composition
Future Projects in Gaming
Amancio’s perspective comes at a time when Netflix is working on an Assassin’s Creed adaptation, which will add further excitement to the franchise.
With more actors recently announced, anticipation is building, although character details remain scarce.
Luca Fischer is a senior technology journalist with more than twelve years of professional experience specializing in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and consumer electronics. L. Fischer earned his M.S. in Computer Science from Columbia University in 2011, where he developed a strong foundation in data science and network security before transitioning into tech media.
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