Blockbuster Inc.

About the Game

Blockbuster Inc. is a movie studio management simulation developed by the Greek indie team Super Sly Fox and released on June 6, 2024, for Windows. Inspired by games such as Lionhead Studios' The Movies, it places players in charge of their own film production company. The objective is to develop a small studio into a successful entertainment business by managing facilities, employees, film productions and finances.

The game begins in 1920 and follows the development of the film industry across subsequent decades. It does not feature a fixed linear storyline or traditional campaign. Instead, it offers a sandbox experience in which players determine their studio's growth, investments, productions and business strategy. Studio construction and management form a major part of the gameplay. Players design their own facilities, build offices, film sets, production rooms, training areas and employee amenities. They can customize room dimensions, furniture, decorations, equipment and the overall layout of their studio. Facility organization has an impact on employee efficiency and the production process. 

Managing employees is equally important. Players recruit actors, directors, screenwriters, producers and technical staff, using talent scouting to discover new performers and professionals. Each employee has individual skills, personality traits and requirements. Training, working hours, workplace conditions and employee satisfaction influence productivity. Popular actors may have particularly demanding personalities and expectations. The central activity is film and television production. Players select a genre, script, leading actors, supporting cast and production crew. They then organize scenes and choose the appropriate sets, costumes, props and equipment. Available genres include drama, comedy, horror, science fiction, adventure and fantasy. The Direct Scene feature provides detailed control over the filmmaking process. 

Players can position actors on sets, select their animations and behaviour, adjust facial expressions, control camera movement and positioning, and add lighting, visual effects, stunts and sound effects. Once filming is completed, the production enters post-production, where players arrange scenes and customize the soundtrack, audio and additional effects. Movies and television shows are evaluated according to production quality, acting performances, scripts and audience reception. Their success affects revenue, studio reputation and future development. Players must monitor changing audience preferences, adapt their productions to emerging trends and compete with rival film studios. An awards system also recognizes successful productions. The economic management system includes operating expenses, salaries, investments, loans, marketing campaigns and business negotiations. Players can purchase shares in competing studios, negotiate deals and expand their company. Researching new technologies unlocks improved equipment and production capabilities, allowing more sophisticated films to be created.

Another important feature is the Set Designer, which allows players to construct custom movie sets, save their creations and share them through the Steam Workshop. Players can download and use community-created sets and objects, expanding the creative possibilities available for their productions.

Blockbuster Inc. Trailer