Synths, impossible physics, and an “erotic experience with a PS5 controller” - the side projects of game devs are a reminder creativity is undimmable
The article examines how game developers’ personal side projects reveal a creative spirit that often goes underappreciated within the industry. Drawing attention to diverse creative endeavors—ranging from synthesizer work and experimental physics to interactive art experiences—the piece argues that creativity remains a core driver of what makes games compelling, even as it becomes increasingly constrained at many major studios.
The author critiques how industry leadership frequently undervalues creativity, viewing it as something to be controlled, directed, or merely leveraged as marketing language rather than as the fundamental element that gives games their appeal and commercial success. These side projects serve as evidence that developer creativity cannot be suppressed, despite the corporate structures and decision-making frameworks that often prioritize other concerns. The contrast between constrained official projects and the unbridled experimentation in developers’ personal work highlights a broader tension within the gaming industry between creative ambition and business pragmatism.