FromSoftware is a Japanese video game development studio known for its “Souls” series. The company was founded in November 1986 by Masaru Yokoyama and has since been acquired by Kadokawa Games.
FromSoftware is best known for its “Souls” series of games, which includes the critically acclaimed “Demon’s Souls,” “Dark Souls,” and “Bloodborne.” However, the studio has also developed other successful titles such as the “Armored Core” series and the “Shadow Tower” series.
The company has been known for its uncompromising stand on video games, creating fun games for the company to make without thinking about the mainstream. It’s a successful business, garnering millions of fans throughout the company’s life span and also gaining billions of dollars in revenue. There’s a lot to be learned from this company, especially if you’re an indie developer.
The first thing you need to know about is the company’s recent hit, Elden Ring.
1. Elden Ring
Elden Ring is a massive hit in the video game industry, garnering 12 million copies sold worldwide and more as the days pass since its release. The game is a gigantic open-world action RPG set in a fictional world inspired by the works of J. R. R. Tolkien and George R. R. Martin.
This game rocked the foundation of the industry, showing that single-player experiences aren’t dead. The game is also a great example of how to create an engaging and rewarding story.
The game’s success has shown that there’s still a market for single-player, story-driven games. If you’re an indie developer, this should be music to your ears. So don’t be afraid to create a single-player experience dedicated to fans. Moreover, don’t be scared to change consumer expectations.
2. Changing Consumer Expectations
FromSoftware has been known never to follow the mainstream. Instead, the company has consistently made video games for itself and its fans. This is perfectly illustrated in the company’s approach to “Elden Ring.”
The game was pitched as a spiritual successor to the “Souls” series. However, it quickly became apparent that “Elden Ring” was its own thing. The game took the Souls formula and mixed it with an open world, giving players a new experience.
This change in direction caught many gamers off guard. They didn’t know what to expect from the game. However, this change ended up being a good thing. It allowed FromSoftware to offer something new and fresh to the industry.
If you’re an indie developer, don’t be afraid to go against the grain. You never know what you might come up with that could change the industry for the better.
3. Create a Unique Experience
FromSoftware has always been about creating unique experiences. The company doesn’t simply copy what’s popular in the market and tries to cash in on it.
This is perfectly illustrated in their games. “Demon’s Souls,” “Dark Souls,” “Bloodborne,” and now “Elden Ring” are all completely different games. Nevertheless, they all offer something new and fresh to the player, even if they do follow the foundational elements of the “Souls-like” genre.
If you’re an indie developer, take FromSoftware’s lead and create a unique experience. Don’t try to copy what’s popular. Instead, think outside the box and develop something new and rewarding for players.
4. Accessibility
One of the best things about FromSoftware games is that anyone can play them. The company releases its games on all platforms, making them accessible to as many people as possible. All kinds of gaming desktops can play Elden Ring, and even old gaming rigs can play it on high. This accessibility makes it possible for anyone to play the game.
Accessibility is a great way to build a fan base. The more people that can play your game, the more likely they are to become fans.
As an indie developer, you should also release your games on as many platforms as possible. This will allow you to reach a wider audience and potentially build a larger fan base.
5. Scalability
FromSoftware is a great example of a company that scales its games well. The company makes games that can be played on a variety of gaming platforms, from consoles to PC.
This scalability allows FromSoftware to reach a wider audience. It also allows the company to release its games on new platforms as they become available.
As an indie developer, you should be aiming to scale your business, finding new creative ways to reach out to them. This will allow you to reach a wider audience and potentially build a larger fan base.
6. Not Compromising on Quality
FromSoftware is known for its high-quality games. The company doesn’t release buggy or unfinished games. It takes time to make sure that each game is polished and perfected before it’s released.
This commitment to quality has made FromSoftware one of the most respected developers in the industry. Players know that they can trust the company to deliver a high-quality product.
As an indie developer, you should also be aiming to release high-quality games. Don’t try to rush your games out the door to meet a deadline. Instead, take your time to perfect them. This will show your players that you’re committed to delivering a great experience.
FromSoftware is an excellent example of how to be successful in the video game industry. As an indie developer, you can learn from their success by creating unique experiences, being accessible to all gamers, scaling your business well, and not compromising on quality. By following these tips, you may just find yourself on the road to success.
