In recent discussions, Shawn Layden, the former president and CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment America, has expressed concerns about the current state of the gaming industry. He highlighted that the basic game publishing model has remained unchanged since the early 90s, which has led to a narrow focus on sequels and established franchises. This model, while financially successful, has not broadened the appeal of gaming to a wider audience. Layden pointed out that many people do not have a favorite game, unlike music, which is universally appreciated. He believes that the industry needs to create innovative and unique games to attract non-gamers and expand the market. Layden's observations are supported by data indicating that less than half of players complete the biggest games today. He argues that the current trend of developing high-budget games, often requiring triple-digit millions in funding, limits creativity and risks alienating potential new players. Instead, he advocates for a return to double-A games, which can be produced with smaller budgets and still deliver engaging experiences. This approach could allow developers to take risks on original ideas rather than relying on established franchises. The gaming industry has seen a significant increase in development costs, particularly for major franchises like Call of Duty, which often involve large teams of hundreds or thousands of people. While this model works for some titles, Layden believes it is not sustainable for the industry as a whole. He emphasizes the need for a shift in focus towards understanding the audience and creating games that resonate with them, rather than simply following trends or capitalizing on existing franchises. Ultimately, Layden's vision is to revitalize the gaming landscape by encouraging the development of double-A games that can appeal to a broader audience. By fostering creativity and innovation, he hopes to make gaming a more inclusive and widely appreciated form of entertainment, similar to music. This shift could not only benefit developers and publishers but also enrich the gaming experience for players, making it a more integral part of everyday life.