"Specialists with experience in the international market are particularly in demand," says Marina Lopatina from WN Talents about the main trends for 2025

We continue to wrap up 2025 with experts in the gaming industry. Up next is an interview with Marina Lopatina, Business Development Director of the recruitment agency WN Talents.

How did 2025 turn out for the agency?

Marina: It was an active and productive year. We gained many new clients and interesting job vacancies. The year was more successful than the previous one. We dedicated it to streamlining processes and honing our expertise. Financially, this year also surpassed the last. Overall, we continue to develop in our chosen direction.

How did the gaming job market change over 2025?

Marina: I see a demand for managers working on international projects — business developers and client relations managers.

Regarding working conditions, many companies have shifted to a five-day workweek in the office or require office presence several days a week. This is especially true for offices in Moscow. Consequently, this changes the hiring landscape.

A new trend at the end of the year is a sharp increase in layoffs in November and December. Even experienced specialists are being let go. There are several reasons for this.

First, companies are shedding unprofitable or low-profit projects.

Second, companies are optimizing their payroll for 2026 in advance. A new tax system comes into effect next year, which lowers the VAT threshold for the simplified tax system, increases the VAT rate, eliminates preferential insurance rates for SMEs, and more.

What specialists in the gaming sector were most sought after in 2025?

Marina: There was a particularly high demand for specialists with experience in the international market: biz devs, sales, UA specialists, marketers — essentially those who bring measurable revenue to companies. This trend has persisted for the last three years.

We also searched extensively for game designers and Senior-level developers in 2025. No one reached out for beginner specialists this year.

What are the agency's plans for 2026?

Marina: Our plans remain consistent: to grow, explore new markets, find growth opportunities, and monitor potential downturns. This allows us to stay in tune with the market and swiftly switch to promising markets or locations.