(Image credit: HBO)
Shawn Layden’s tenure at PlayStation marked one of the most transformative eras in the platform’s history. He began his journey during the PS1 era and concluded his role just before the introduction of the PS5. His presence was pivotal during landmark events, such as the PS2 launch, when it soared to become the highest-selling console ever. Despite numerous achievements, Layden’s proudest moment doesn’t revolve around gaming itself.
In a conversation with Destin Legarie, Layden was asked about his most challenging accomplishment. He humbly admitted, “I didn’t pull off any of these games,” emphasizing that his role was ensuring financial support. Yet, he highlighted a major success: “One of the greatest achievements was establishing PlayStation Productions.” This entity, birthed towards the end of his leadership, is responsible for iconic adaptations like The Last of Us series and the Uncharted film.
Layden shared, “We’ve been in discussions with Hollywood since the early 2000s regarding game IPs in linear media such as film and TV.” Initially, the idea was met with laughter as he was dismissed with remarks like “Pong the game? Haha, get out of here.” But Layden was undeterred, understanding it was just a matter of time until this bridge would be built, asserting, “An entire generation has to retire before this conversation can reignite.”
He compared the current enthusiasm for gaming adaptations to the early 2000s surge of comic book movies, driven by a generation raised on these stories. Layden credited his former competitors, praising works like The Super Mario Bros. Movie, the Sonic series, and Detective Pikachu. Yet, he holds “The Last of Us as the benchmark,” for successfully translating an engrossing gaming experience into a compelling television narrative.
Layden also cautioned about the rapidly escalating AAA budgets, viewing them as an “existential threat to gaming.” Stay tuned for more weekly updates, stories from your favorite communities, and beyond.