Housemarque, the developers behind the captivating game Saros, have set their sights on emulating the success of FromSoftware, the creators of the critically acclaimed Elden Ring. This ambitious goal is not without its challenges, as Housemarque acknowledges that Saros has not yet achieved the same commercial success as other first-party PlayStation games. However, the studio is confident that their games will find an audience over time, rather than experiencing an immediate surge in popularity at launch.
In an interview with The Game Business, Housemarque's studio head and co-founder Ilari Kuittinen shared insights into the studio's aspirations. Kuittinen noted that FromSoftware has been consistently delivering games in a similar genre for decades, gradually building a dedicated fan base. This strategy has proven successful, as FromSoftware has become a household name in the gaming industry, decades after its establishment.
Housemarque, while not aiming for the same level of success as FromSoftware, is determined to follow a similar trajectory. Kuittinen emphasized the importance of educating the market about the unique experiences their games offer, stating, 'We have two unique games out. Returnal, Saros. It's kind of a new thing that you need to educate the market about, so that people say, 'Hey, these flow states are really cool.'
The studio's journey began in 1993, but it was the release of Resogun in 2013 that truly defined their identity. Since then, Housemarque has focused on creating fast-paced, intense shooters that have garnered critical acclaim. The success of Returnal, their first PS5 game, led to PlayStation acquiring Housemarque in 2021.
Looking ahead, Housemarque seems poised to continue leaning into their strengths, developing highly replayable and challenging shooters. While the future remains uncertain, the studio's commitment to innovation and quality is evident. As Kuittinen puts it, 'FromSoftware's journey from King's Field to what [it is] today… We're not presuming that we would be anywhere close to that. But, [like FromSoftware], we will keep our core, keep educating the market that these are the coolest games you can play. That's our goal.'
In my opinion, Housemarque's ambition to emulate FromSoftware's success is both inspiring and intriguing. While the road ahead may be challenging, the studio's dedication to their craft and their unique vision is commendable. As a gamer, I am eager to see how Housemarque continues to push the boundaries of gaming, offering fresh and captivating experiences that will resonate with players for years to come.
