'Art and science and procreation, that's about all life is good for:' Two former freeware developers are still trying to keep it weird in an era when companies 'sell games to people in 5-second clips'
PC Gamer
by Ted Litchfield February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Talha & Jack Co., an indie development duo consisting of Jack King-Spooner and Talha Kaya, are making waves in the gaming industry with their experimental and boundary-pushing projects. Despite the challenges of creating unique, innovative games in a market dominated by quick, clip-based marketing strategies, they continue to stand out with their eccentric art style and refusal to conform to traditional game design expectations. Their latest project, *Abide*, is currently fundraising on Kickstarter, aiming to meet its goal while maintaining their signature creative integrity.
The gaming landscape has shifted dramatically since the duo began their journey, with companies prioritizing short-term metrics and immediate returns over experimental creativity. Kaya notes that the rise of platforms like TikTok and Instagram has reduced game appreciation to 5-second clips, making it harder for slower-paced, thoughtfully designed games to gain traction. This shift contrasts sharply with the indie scene's early days, where unconventional projects could thrive without the pressure of commercial metrics.
King-Spooner attributes their ability to maintain a steady pace of development to reusing code and animation systems from past projects, as well as their willingness to embrace imperfection in their creative process. They emphasize that higher production values don't necessarily lead to better storytelling or meaning, citing examples like the lavish *One Piece* Netflix adaptation compared to the simpler, more impactful original manga. Their signature visual style—clay creatures and stop-motion animation—isn't just a gimmick; it's a reflection of King-Spooner's lifelong passion for making things, whether it's art, gadgets, or games.
For readers interested in gaming, Talha & Jack Co.'s story highlights the importance
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Originally published on PC Gamer on 2/20/2026