Devs Explain Console Overload with 'Eslop' Games

The gaming industry is currently facing a troubling trend where storefronts like the Nintendo eShop and PlayStation Store are inundated with low-effort games dubbed "slop." These games often utilize generative AI and misleading marketing tactics, creating a flood of similar-looking titles that crowd out genuinely creative offerings. This issue has raised consumer complaints about discoverability and quality, sparking calls for improved regulation of these online stores. Developers have expressed frustration with the current approval processes, where once a publisher gains access, they can release multiple games with minimal oversight. In contrast, Xbox has maintained stricter policies, supporting higher quality standards and reducing the prevalence of such games.

A combination of relaxed approval processes for developers and marketing strategies focused on releasing games in succession has allowed low-quality games to fill these storefronts, often at the expense of indie titles. Developers are able to exploit these systems by submitting numerous similar games, thus overwhelming the marketplace.

The term "slop" has become synonymous with the overwhelming number of mediocre titles crowding gaming storefronts, particularly on platforms like Nintendo and PlayStation. These games not only misrepresent their quality through flashy marketing but also contribute to a worsening experience for consumers trying to discover unique content. The Nintendo Switch, which launched in 2017, quickly became a favorite for both new indie developers and established franchises, making its current state of inundation all the more concerning as it struggles with the influx of low-quality releases.