Starting a game studio sounds exciting! Take creative control, build your dream project, and be your own boss. But in practice? It’s a terrifying proposition. You’re diving into one of the most competitive industries on the planet, overflowing with brilliant developers willing to work for (on average) 40% less than they could earn elsewhere. Publisher investment has slowed dramatically, alternative means of funding is scarce, and players can be reluctant to open their wallet.

Beyond the coding and design, you’ll face the realities of payroll, taxes, contracts, and keeping your team alive between projects; all while trying to make something you actually believe in. Michael Carriere has been running Zapdot for 17 years, and he has the gray hair to prove it. In this candid roundtable, he’ll share war stories, lessons learned, and the unvarnished truths about what it actually takes to start (and survive) as a small studio in 2026.

If you’re thinking about making the leap, come prepared with your questions and be ready for a reality check or two.