Thatgamecompany

Thatgamecompany: Crafting Emotions Through Play

Imagine a world where video games are not just about winning or losing but about feeling something profound and meaningful. That’s the vision that drives Thatgamecompany, Inc., an independent game development studio founded in 2006 by Jenova Chen and Kellee Santiago. These two visionary creators embarked on a journey to create games that would resonate with players on an emotional level, rather than just through complex gameplay mechanics.

A Vision of Emotion

When you think about video games, what comes to mind? Do you envision endless levels and intricate puzzles, or do you imagine a world where every moment is filled with wonder and introspection? Thatgamecompany’s approach is the latter. They believe that the true essence of gaming lies in the emotions it evokes, making their games more than just entertainment—they are experiences.

From USC to Sony

Their journey began at the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts, where they started brainstorming ideas for a game company. In 2006, they officially launched Thatgamecompany with a deal from Sony Computer Entertainment to produce three games for their PlayStation Network distribution system.

Games That Speak to the Soul

Their first game, Flow, was released in 2007. This 2D adventure about navigating planes with an aquatic microorganism set a tone of innovation and emotional depth. But it was their second game, Flower, that truly captured the hearts of players worldwide.

How could you not be moved by controlling wind to blow petals through the air? This motion-sensitive control experience became an instant classic, selling in the top ten PlayStation Network titles of 2009 and earning several awards. It was a testament to their ability to create games that speak directly to players’ emotions.

The Journey

Following Flower, Thatgamecompany released Journey in 2012, which took the gaming world by storm. In this game, you control a robed figure on a desert journey, encountering other players online. The game’s critical and commercial success was unparalleled, becoming the fastest-selling game to date on PlayStation Store in North America and Europe.

But with success came challenges, as their contract with Sony ended, leading to financial difficulties and the departure of several employees. However, they managed to raise $5.5 million in venture capital funding, allowing them to continue developing games without publisher influences.

A Magical Kingdom

Their latest game, Sky: Children of the Light, released in 2019, is a magical kingdom filled with exploration and social interaction. The game features seven unique realms, each themed around a stage of life, connected by a Home hub. Players can collect cosmetic and gameplay-affecting items by interacting with “spirits.”

Is it any wonder why Apple chose Sky: Children of the Light as their iPhone Game of the Year in 2019? The game’s success on multiple platforms, including Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and PC, is a testament to its emotional appeal.

A Future Full of Possibilities

In March 2020, Thatgamecompany announced plans to open a second studio. However, the pandemic put those plans on hold. Despite this setback, they continued to innovate and push boundaries with their games. In March 2022, they received a $160 million investment and brought in Pixar co-founder Edwin Catmull as an advisor.

What does the future hold for Thatgamecompany? With such support and visionaries like Chen at the helm, it’s clear that their games will continue to evoke emotions and inspire players worldwide. Their fifth game is described by Chen as “like a theme park,” promising even more immersive experiences.

A Studio of Emotions

Thatgamecompany has shown us that video games can be so much more than just pixels on a screen. They are stories, emotions, and memories wrapped in interactive experiences. By focusing on the emotional journey rather than the gameplay mechanics, they have created games that resonate with players on a deep level.

As we continue to explore the vast landscape of video games, it’s clear that Thatgamecompany is leading the way in creating experiences that touch our hearts and souls. Their commitment to emotional depth and innovation ensures that their games will remain a beacon for those seeking more than just entertainment.

In a world where technology advances at lightning speed, it’s the emotional connections we make through these games that truly matter.