Interviews// Industry Insights: Paul Rustchynsky, Evolution Studios

Posted 1 Apr 2013 13:00 by Svend Joscelyne

As part of an ongoing series, SPOnG gets the unedited, open and highly informed opinions of developers, producers and more in the vast world of computer games.

Industry Figure: Paul Rustchynsky
Job Title: Game Director
Company: Evolution Studios
Best Known For: Motorstorm RC

Evolution Studios became the darling of Sony's British output during the launch of the PlayStation 3, where it released the original Motorstorm alongside the Blu-ray console. After several sequels and spinoffs - including the addictive Motorstorm RC - the developer is taking its hand to the PS4, with the upcoming DriveClub.

We speak with Paul Rustchynsky on Sony's intentions to grow its developer relations, how he feels about an always-online future and whether new IPs are necessary ahead of the PS4 launch.

Do you feel that an always-online future would be a positive one, for both developers and gamers?

As seen with the recent release of SimCity there are clear problems associated with always-online games, but that's not to say there aren't benefits to be had either for both players and developers.

Ultimately though I believe that a game should only be online-only if there is a meaningful and justified improvement to the experience, which without online wouldn't work at all.

Following Sony's PlayStation 4 reveal event, how successful do you think next-generation consoles will be in capturing the indie and mobile gamer?

Sony has made a huge effort with the PlayStation 4 to make the hardware more accessible and open to indie developers, plus with the announcement of 'The Witness' from Jonathan Blow it sends a very clear message that Sony are serious about getting the best indie game makers on board.

For mobile gamers the PlayStation Vita is only going to go from strength to strength as the software catalogue continues to broaden and more significantly as the PS4 becomes an integral companion, offering a strong range of complimentary features such as Remote Play.