In today’s fast‑evolving games industry, outsourcing has become both more essential and more complex.

As studios face tighter budgets, faster production cycles, and increased scrutiny over costs, the true value of external art partners is often overshadowed by a focus on day rates alone.

Becky Jackson, Commercial & Operations Director at Sumo Digital’s Atomhawk, explores this trend highlighting how shifting market pressures have made bidding more competitive and retainers more common, even when project scopes are undefined. Yet beneath the emphasis on cost lies a deeper story about expertise, collaboration, and the often unseen services that elevate a partnership far beyond simple asset production.

Head over to Atomhawk’s website to find out more.

*Atomhawk is one of Sumo Digital’s studios based in Gateshead, UK. Founded in 2009, Atomhawk is a digital art and design studio supporting concept art, production art, UI/UX, animation and marketing art for games, film and interactive media. The studio has contributed to titles including Halo Infinite, Mortal Kombat 11, Age of Empires IV, Helldivers 2, PUBG and Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League. Find out more about Atomhawk or get in touch to carry on the conversation.