So, this is going to be a bit of a more personal update than I usually make. As I’ve said before, I try to not mix stuff about my day job into this devlog. But it’s going to be unavoidable here.
Since its inception almost three years ago, Eldritch 2 has been a side project, something I would spend evenings or weekends working on as I was able. Consequently, progress has been slow but steady. I got a bit burnt out toward the end of last year as the demands of my real job ramped up, culminating in a temporary pause on these journals.
Sadly, my full-time employment came to an end this week. I won’t go into the details here, as it’s not my place to do so; but suffice it to say, I parted on good terms. Everyone involved hopes that we will work together again.
I don’t know what the future holds. I am searching for jobs, but the job market in the video game industry is rough right now. And it is possible that other employers would not be as cool with me continuing to work on a side project as Question has been, which might permanently halt Eldritch 2. I am also considering pitching Eldritch 2 to small- to mid-scale publishers, though I’d guess that finding funding for even small projects is rough right now too.
In the meantime, I’m treating my work on Eldritch 2 as my day job. I want to see how far I can take it, and how fast I can move when it is more than a side project. And if nothing else, I hope it will keep me occupied and help me avoid the pit of despair that can come from layoffs.
Between being a little scrambled this week and uncertain about the future, I’m still figuring out how to prioritize Eldritch 2‘s schedule. Before my hiatus, finishing the full set of Innsmouth dungeons rooms was my top priority; but in light of potentially pitching the game, I may put a pin in that task and switch to some new feature work to demonstrate the macro progression systems of the game. And in any case, I think finishing up some unfinished art assets would be useful so I can put together a playable demo or a trailer or anything that won’t require “dev glasses” to evaluate.
If you know of any studios that are looking for expert game engineers, or publishers who are looking for small-budget indie titles, or anyone who could use short-term contract or consulting work, please reach out!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dphrygian
Take care, love, David.