Gaming contract recruitment: Are studios still using contractors?
Contractors are on the rise in gaming and immersive technology – but are studios making the most of them? As projects scale, deadlines tighten and skill demands shift, more companies are leaning on contractors, freelancers, and interim talent to plug gaps and keep things moving. Our 2025 Gaming & Immersive Salary Survey reveals just how big a role contractors now play in this industry.
How many businesses are using contractors?
According to our data, 40% of gaming and immersive tech businesses are currently using contract, interim, and freelance talent. That’s a significant portion of the market, showing how essential flexible resources have become.
Studios are increasingly aware that permanent hiring isn’t always enough. Games evolve fast, new technologies arrive overnight and specific expertise is needed on demand. Contractors are proving to be a reliable way to stay agile.
Why contractors? The main benefits
When asked about the value of contractors, businesses pointed to three standout benefits:
- Covers skills shortages – specialist talent like VR developers, AI engineers or environment artists may not always be available permanently, but contractors fill these gaps quickly.
- On-off resource – ideal for project spikes, launches or experimental work without the long-term commitment.
- Easier to budget – fixed contracts allow studios to manage costs more predictably, especially compared to open-ended permanent hires.
This flexibility is helping studios stay competitive while managing risks.
The scale of contractor use
It’s not just about bringing in a few freelancers here and there. A huge 81% of respondents told us they use over 20 contractors for their projects. Even more telling, 63% engage them for durations over 12 months.
That’s a clear sign contractors aren’t just “short-term fixes.” They’re becoming a long-term part of studio operations, helping deliver large-scale releases and ongoing development work.
With access to TechNET Immersive’s contractor network, studios can tap into this highly skilled pool quickly. The talent you need for your next release may already be available in the contractor market.
Why now is a great time to hire studio contractors
With workloads increasing and competition for permanent hires tougher than ever, now is the perfect time to consider contractors as part of your workforce strategy. They bring fresh skills, immediate impact and the kind of flexibility that lets studios adapt to market changes.
If your team is facing skills shortages or gearing up for a big release, hiring contractors could be the smartest move you make in 2025. Contact the team today to discuss your gaming recruitment needs!
