PBS mini-documentary explores indie game creation, shows what they do that majors can't (video)

The indie game world has undergone a metamorphosis over the past few years, transforming from an often overlooked niche into as much a staple of the game industry as once-every-year blockbusters like the Call of Duty series. It's that fast-rising side of gaming that PBS' Off Book has explored in a succinct documentary. As both developers and game journalists explain, the small and more flexible nature of indie teams lets them delve into game concepts, art and sound that major developers typically avoid -- you probably wouldn't get Bastion, Fez or Super Meat Boy out of a company focused mostly on hitting its quarterly revenue targets. Crowdfunding and internet distribution methods like Steam and Xbox Live Arcade have similarly removed many of the barriers that either kept these games from commercial success or forced uncomfortable deals with large publishers in the past. Accordingly, the indie sphere that PBS sees in 2012 is less about trying to become the next Activision or EA and more about experimentation and personal expression. If you've ever wanted an elegant summary of what makes Spelunky feel so special, the whole Off Book episode awaits after the break.Continue reading PBS mini-documentary explores indie game creation, shows what they do that majors can't (video)Filed under: Gaming, AltPBS mini-documentary explores indie game creation, shows what they do that majors can't (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 05 Oct 2012 03:36:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink   |   | Email this | CommentsNexus 7 Gaming Controller Nexus 7 Gaming Dead Trigger Nexus 7 Gaming Demo Nexus 7 Gaming Hd Nexus 7 Gaming Performance Nexus 7 Gaming Review Nexus 7 Gaming Tablet Nexus 7 Gaming Test Nexus 7 Gaming This Week Nexus 7 Gaming Today Nexus 7 Hands On Nexus 7 Hands On Cnet Nexus 7 Hands On Engadget Nexus 7 Hands On Hd Nexus 7 Hands On Review Nexus 7 Hands On Review Video Nexus 7 Hands On This Week Nexus 7 Hands On Today Nexus 7 Hands On Verge Nexus 7 Hands On Youtube Nexus 7 In Stores Today Nexus 7 Keyboard Nexus 7 Keyboard Accessories Nexus 7 Keyboard Amazon Nexus 7 Keyboard And Case Nexus 7 Keyboard And Mouse Nexus 7 Keyboard App Nexus 7 Keyboard Bluetooth Nexus 7 Keyboard Case Nexus 7 Keyboard Case Logitech