Whatâ??s their secret? Aussie studio turns 25

while the game industry stretches and strains from new and volatile digital markets, and as the stakes on triple-A projects are pushed to an all time high, one humble game studio from down under has steadily passed its 25 year anniversary.

Australian studio Micro Forte quietly passed the rare milestone last week and celebrated the occasion at a bash on Sydney Harbour.

The group has developed only a handful of games.

The secret? Studio founder John de Margheriti – still at the studio today – said a bit of pragmatism, and good friends, is all it takes.

“We are very nimble and have focused on sustainability rather than solely chasing our dreams,” he said.

“Our willingness to adapt and diversify quickly has meant that we are still here to fight another day in this challenging, but very rewarding industry.”

The firm’s first game, developed in 1985, was Commodore 64 title America’s Cup Challenge Sailing Simulation – a game published by Electronic Arts.

The group’s most famous project is the 2001 title Fallout Tactics.

At the Sydney Harbour celebrations, de Margheriti paid tribute to those who have helped the company along the way, giving special thanks venture capitalist firm Allen & Buckeridge, who invested in the company in 1999.

“Throughout our 25 year history, Micro Forté has been open and proactive to change,” said de Margheriti.

He also thanked his loyal staff, and spoke of the strong friendship at the group.