It didn't need proof, that was just a couple years after a time when that would have been the norm. There have always been great, notable and successful games been developed by solo developers and bedroom studios, at any time. Introversion, Stardew Valley..
Gaming simply exited niche culture and the market became humongous. And of course in total numbers, the share of the lone wolves has dwindled when compared to the eight-figure production cost triple-A market. But does that really mean anything?
Joakim Sandberg made, “The Iconoclasts” entirely solo, which was impressive for a modern Metroidvania that had 20+ bosses with all sorts of varying fight mechanics. It also included multiple console ports.
Granted, he’s done a ton of animation work over the years, including for WayForward, so it’s not a surprise that The Iconoclasts looks as great as it does.
Gaming simply exited niche culture and the market became humongous. And of course in total numbers, the share of the lone wolves has dwindled when compared to the eight-figure production cost triple-A market. But does that really mean anything?