Housemarque: No Live-Service Games While Premium Sales Thrive
May 20, 2025 2:46 PMHousemarque, the developer behind acclaimed titles like Returnal, has reiterated its commitment to creating premium single-player games rather than pursuing a live-service or free-to-play model. Studio head Ilari Kuittinen emphasized that as long as consumers continue to buy premium games, Housemarque will stick to its philosophy of delivering brief and meaningful gaming experiences similar to movies or TV series. The studio is currently focused on their upcoming PS5 title, Saros, which is set to launch next year and aims at sustaining its legacy for another 30 years by consistently producing high-quality games.
Will Housemarque ever create a live-service game?Housemarque has stated they have no plans to develop live-service titles as long as players continue to support premium games. This commitment to a single-player experience aligns with their goal of delivering engaging experiences that don't require continuous play.
Housemarque is well-known for its unique offerings like Returnal, a roguelike shooter acclaimed for its innovative gameplay and narrative moments. Since its acquisition by Sony in 2021, there's been significant interest surrounding its future projects, especially with Saros on the horizon, drawing attention for maintaining Housemarque's focus on quality over quantity in gaming experiences.
Alex Riverton
Alex Riverton is a seasoned journalist with over a decade of experience in the gaming industry. Known for their in-depth analysis and hands-on previews, Alex has built a reputation for insightful commentary on gameplay mechanics and storytelling in videogames.
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Stimpy commented on: 2025-05-20 15:00:14
Nice to see a studio doubling down on what they do best instead of bending to industry pressure. Housemarque’s laser focus on premium single-player games feels like a win for gamers who still appreciate a tight, well-crafted experience. Between Returnal’s addictive loop and the promise of Saros, it’s clear they’re not just making games—they’re crafting memorable moments you can actually finish in a weekend.
N3rdo commented on: 2025-05-20 14:54:10
Love seeing a studio stick to their roots and prioritize tight, polished experiences over chasing trends. Housemarque’s approach feels like a breath of fresh air in an industry obsessed with endless live-service grinds. Returnal was a masterpiece because it didn’t overstay its welcome—hope Saros keeps that same energy. Not every game needs to be a 100-hour slog to feel worthwhile.
