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Game studios come in many forms and sizes, but they are usually grouped into three major categories based on their scale, budget, and development process:

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1. AAA Studios (Triple-A)

These are large-scale studios with hundreds (or thousands) of employees and massive budgets. Examples include Ubisoft, EA, and CD Projekt Red. Key characteristics:
  • Proprietary game engines
  • Specialized roles (e.g., lighting artist, hair simulation specialist)
  • High production values and long development cycles
AAA studios tend to be structured and hierarchical. Employees usually have very specific responsibilities, which makes these studios ideal for deep specialization.

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2. Mobile Studios

These studios focus on games for smartphones and tablets. While some are small, many (like Supercell or King) have large teams and strong financial backing. Key characteristics:
  • Games built using commercial engines like Unity
  • High emphasis on analytics, user acquisition, and monetization
  • Shorter development cycles
Mobile studios often have fast-paced environments with high iteration speed and frequent releases. They are known for hiring junior talent and having a relatively high employee turnover.

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3. Indie Studios

Independent (indie) teams vary greatly in size and structure — from solo developers to mid-sized studios with 10–30 people. These studios typically work on original, passion-driven projects. Key characteristics:
  • Small, agile teams
  • High creative freedom
  • Limited funding and resources
Many indie teams rely on crowdfunding, grants, or small investors. While they can be extremely innovative, they also face high financial risks and uncertainty.
When joining an indie team, be aware of potential instability and make sure your financial situation allows for flexibility.