Co-Development Revolutionizes Game Development: Insights from XDS Spark Co-founder Sam Carlisle
The world of game development is on the cusp of a revolution, and at its forefront is the practice of co-development. For decades, external studios have collaborated with main game development teams to tackle tasks big and small. However, navigating this process has been shrouded in mystery, leaving many to wonder how to successfully integrate outside partners into their production pipelines.
Sam Carlisle, co-founder of XDS Spark, joined GDC Side Quest host Beth Elderkin for an illuminating conversation on the intricacies of co-development. With his vast experience in guiding studios through this process, Carlisle shed light on the importance of treating external collaborators as integral team members, rather than mere contractors.
One of the key takeaways from their discussion was the need to establish clear communication channels between internal and external teams. This not only helps avoid miscommunication but also fosters a sense of ownership among co-developers. By doing so, studios can tap into the collective creativity and expertise of their partners, ultimately resulting in higher-quality games.
Co-development is no longer just about outsourcing tasks; it’s about building a collaborative ecosystem where internal and external teams work together seamlessly. This approach not only benefits game development but also offers a lifeline for studios struggling to manage growing project sizes without breaking the bank.
Carlisle emphasized that co-development is more than just a cost-cutting measure or a way to augment internal resources. It’s about embracing the power of collaboration, where employees from different studios come together to create something greater than the sum of its parts. This philosophy resonates deeply with game developers who are increasingly recognizing the value of working together to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of gaming.
As the industry continues to evolve at breakneck speed, co-development is poised to play a starring role in shaping the future of game development. By adopting this approach, studios can not only reduce costs but also tap into a wealth of creative talent and expertise that would be impossible to replicate within their own walls.
The implications are far-reaching, with potential applications extending beyond the gaming industry itself. Co-development has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach complex projects across various sectors, from film and television production to software development and beyond.
As we look to the future of VR and XR development, it’s clear that co-development will be a driving force behind innovation. By embracing collaboration and co-creation, developers can push the boundaries of what’s possible in immersive experiences, leading to more engaging, interactive, and immersive worlds for us all to explore. The era of co-development is here, and its impact will be felt across the gaming industry for years to come.
Source: Game Developer XR — 2026-09-25