Wardogs CEO says he won't hire devs who aren't down with mandatory crunch: 'If you care about what you're making, this is the place to work'

Bulkhead CEO Joe Brammer defended the studio’s policy of mandatory crunch during an interview, stating that developers unwilling to accept it are unlikely to be hired. He acknowledged that while crunch is avoided when possible, it remains a reality at Bulkhead, particularly for projects like Wardogs. Brammer argued that those who prioritize the quality of their work will thrive in such an environment, while others may feel exploited. The studio reportedly screens candidates’ social media for anti-crunch sentiments before making hiring decisions.

Brammer’s stance has drawn criticism from industry peers, who argue that crunch is ineffective and harmful to both employees and profits. Some developers on social media dismissed his approach as outdated or counterproductive, citing research that links crunch to burnout and reduced productivity. Others questioned the necessity of such extreme measures, suggesting poor planning was the root cause of the need for overtime.

The controversy intensified after Brammer shared images of overnight workspaces at Bulkhead, including a room with air mattresses for employees fixing Wardogs’ server issues on launch day. The studio’s approach contrasts with industry efforts to reduce or eliminate mandatory crunch following widespread reports of labor exploitation and burnout in game development.

Brammer acknowledged that Bulkhead offers bonuses and incentives to some staff as compensation for crunch, though he did not specify which roles or departments receive these benefits. He emphasized that the studio’s policy is framed around rewarding those who demonstrate commitment to their work, even as critics argue the practice remains exploitative.