AAA video games struggle to keep up with the skyrocketing costs of realistic graphics
Gaming studios face rising costs for realistic graphics, while player preferences shift towards social features.

Game studios face the challenge of managing the increasing costs associated with developing realistic graphics. Titles including Marvel's Spider-Man 2 and The Last of Us: Part II have set high visual standards, but these visuals come with significant financial burdens, such as Spider-Man 2's $300 million development cost.
Despite visual advancements, the returns on these investments are diminishing, with some studios like Insomniac facing layoffs. Audience preferences are shifting towards simpler, socially-driven games like Minecraft, Roblox, and Fortnite, prompting a reevaluation of priorities within the gaming industry.
Some studios are exploring alternative models like the live service approach, which prioritize content updates over graphics. While successful examples like Genshin Impact exist, this approach also poses risks of failure, highlighting an industry at a crossroads as discussions about sustainable development and the potential role of AI unfold.