Job interviews often test skills, experience, and cultural fit—but one gaming studio is taking the process to an extreme. Pocketpair, the independent developer behind the viral survival-crafting hit *Palworld*, now demands proof of gaming passion before even considering candidates. The rule is simple: if your Steam library shows zero playtime, you won’t pass the initial screening.
This isn’t just about boasting about favorite titles. Applicants must also explain the mechanics of their most-played games, justify why those designs stand out, and compare them to similar titles. The goal? To ensure every hire shares the studio’s deep, hands-on understanding of gaming culture—particularly indie titles exclusive to Steam.
No shortcuts allowed
Submitting a friend’s Steam account won’t work. Interviews dig into specific mechanics, questioning candidates on why certain games succeeded where others failed. The studio’s CEO, Takuro Mizobe, has framed this as a necessity: Pocketpair is recruiting game creators who are true Steam gamers. The emphasis on indie titles—often born from Steam’s platform—reflects the studio’s own identity as an independent, developer-driven team.
A culture built on play
The approach isn’t just about filtering resumes. It’s a statement on how Pocketpair operates. The studio’s head of publishing, John Buckley, has described similar grilling during his own onboarding, recalling questions about niche titles like *Slay the Spire*. For a company that thrives on creativity and player-driven design, this hiring method ensures every new team member isn’t just familiar with games—they’ve lived them.
Critics might call it overzealous, but for Pocketpair, it’s a non-negotiable filter. In an industry where passion often defines success, the studio’s message is clear: if you haven’t played, you won’t build what they’re creating.
