In the 1990s, Myst was a blockbuster hit. Now its creators are finding it hard to replicate that magic with their latest project, Aanglerfish. Despite a promising demo and a stellar voice performance by Noshir Dalal, the game couldn't secure funding from publishers.

The problem? Middle-budget games have become an endangered species. Triple-A blockbusters are too expensive for most studios, while micro-indie projects often lack the polish to stand out in the crowded market.

With video game investment collapsing due to high interest rates and a glut of low-quality releases on platforms like Steam, publishers are being more cautious with their cash. This shift leaves mid-range developers struggling to find the financial support they need to bring their ideas to life.

The future looks bleak for games that fall in between. But perhaps, as one developer suggests, it’s time to think outside the box and embrace non-traditional funding routes like crowdfunding.