In the rapidly evolving world of gaming, the launch and sustainability of live service games present both unprecedented opportunities and formidable challenges. Companies like RallyHere are stepping up to address these needs, offering a robust backend support system that allows game developers to concentrate on what they do best: creating engaging gameplay experiences.
RallyHere, based in Atlanta, has quickly become a key player in the gaming industry since its inception in February 2023. Founded by Hi-Rez Studios, the company’s mission revolves around providing backend services that streamline the development and launch of multiplayer titles, such as the highly anticipated Smite 2. This focus on live service games, which rely on continuous player engagement and regular content updates, positions RallyHere at the forefront of a trend that has reshaped how games are developed and sustained.
Stewart Chisam, the head of RallyHere, succinctly captures the duality of the gaming business landscape in an interview: “You have to be steeled for failure and prepared for success in this industry. It’s a real tough industry. Most games struggle. But if your game does explode (in a good way), the last thing you want to do is burn that lottery ticket.” This sentiment reflects the high stakes involved in game development today, where a misstep can lead to swift cancellations, as seen with Sony’s Concord, which was shut down just 12 days after launch.
RallyHere aims to mitigate these risks by taking on the backend responsibilities that often bog down developers. By handling essential but often tedious tasks such as player management, server orchestration, and data analytics, RallyHere allows developers to focus on creativity and innovation. Chisam explains, “We’re plumbing and infrastructure for these games. What’s going to set your game apart is your game, not necessarily the plumbing. It will only set your game apart if the plumbing is bad.”
The success of RallyHere is evident in its rapid growth and the partnerships it has formed. With about 40 employees, the company has already established its influence in the live service gaming space. Notably, its collaboration with ProbablyMonsters, a company that has raised over $250 million, highlights RallyHere’s role as a trusted partner in the game development ecosystem. Mark Subotnick, Senior Vice President of Partnerships at ProbablyMonsters, emphasizes this collaboration, stating, “By having a trusted partner like RallyHere, we can focus on the game itself, knowing that our backend needs are expertly managed.”
RallyHere’s platform is designed with four key components that are critical for successful live service games. These include player management, sessions and server orchestration, publishing and LiveOps, and robust data analytics. Each of these components plays an integral role in ensuring a smooth and engaging player experience. For instance, effective player management tools help developers maintain a strong connection with their users, while server orchestration ensures that players are matched efficiently without compromising performance.
Chisam’s insights into the challenges of live service games are echoed by industry peers. Many developers grapple with the complexities of managing an ecosystem that includes players, sessions, servers, and vast amounts of data. This complexity necessitates a solid backend solution, which RallyHere provides by integrating its services into the development processes of its partners.
As the landscape of gaming continues to shift, RallyHere is preparing to ramp up its sales and marketing efforts, aiming to onboard more clients and extend its influence. Chisam notes that the company is in a strong position to support multiple games under a common platform, offering streamlined operations for publishing, marketing, and community engagement. This model not only enhances efficiency but also allows for the rapid adaptation to player demands and market trends.
The gaming industry is filled with unpredictability, yet the demand for live service games is undeniable. As developers strive to create immersive worlds that keep players engaged long after the initial launch, the role of backend service providers like RallyHere becomes increasingly vital. By allowing developers to focus on creative aspects, RallyHere is not just facilitating game launches; it is shaping the future of interactive entertainment.
With a strong foundation laid and significant partnerships formed, RallyHere is set to play a critical role in the ongoing evolution of the gaming industry. As the company looks ahead, its commitment to supporting game developers will likely lead to innovative solutions that enhance player experiences and redefine what is possible in live service gaming.