XCOM and Gloomhaven's creators say video game and tabletop collabs can save the industry

August 2, 2026 - 01:16

The creators behind XCOM and Gloomhaven are making the case that partnerships between video game studios and tabletop companies could be a key part of stabilizing an industry hit by layoffs and economic pressure. Rather than viewing board games as a side project, they argue that these collaborations offer a practical path for developers looking for new revenue streams and lower production risks.

The core idea is simple: a video game studio with an established world can license that property to a tabletop publisher. The publisher handles the physical production, distribution, and retail relationships, which are all areas where digital developers often lack experience. In return, the studio gets licensing fees and a share of sales without needing to hire a large new team or invest in manufacturing. For the tabletop side, they gain access to a built-in fan base that is already eager for more content in a universe they love.

This model becomes especially attractive in the current climate. With high tariffs on imported components and ongoing layoffs across the gaming sector, a smaller, focused project with a clear audience can be a safer bet than a massive AAA title. The development cycle is also shorter, meaning money comes back faster, which helps studios weather uncertain periods.

The people involved point out that this is not about cheap tie-ins or low-effort reskins. The best results come when both teams genuinely collaborate on mechanics, making sure the tabletop version feels like a natural extension of the digital experience. That level of care builds trust with players, who are often skeptical of crossovers that feel like cash grabs.

There is also a creative benefit. Working in a different medium forces designers to rethink core systems, and those ideas often find their way back into the next video game installment. It is a two-way street that can keep both sides fresh.

The message is that in a time when the industry is looking for stability, the old walls between video games and tabletop should come down. A good partnership can be more than a novelty; it can be a smart business move that keeps teams working and fans engaged.