Former Eidos Montreal head: Game companies are too dependent on money and Excel spreadsheets

The former director of Eidos Montreal warns that the gaming industry is losing its creative DNA as spreadsheets replace passion in decision-making.

Stephane D’Astous argues that gaming industry executives now prioritize data over creativity. Market consolidation—led by companies like Tencent, NetEase, and Saudi investment groups—concentrates power among fewer people with deeper resources. This shift directly influences development timelines and project budgets.

D’Astous notes that the individuals holding the purse strings have changed. Current leaders lack the industry-specific background of their predecessors from fifteen years ago. He describes today’s management style as spreadsheet-driven rather than passion-led.

Smaller teams once fostered more ambitious projects, according to D’Astous.