2026 SURVEY IS NOW LIVE!

The XDS Insights Report 2026 captures a comprehensive view of external development in games and interactive entertainment—blending hard data, expert perspectives, and real-world experiences from across the globe. Your input ensures our story is accurate and representative, fueling benchmarks, trends, and best practices that developers, publishers and service providers rely on.

All responses will remain anonymous, and the final report will be released in Q1-2 of 2026.

Survey closes November 30, 2025. 

Complete it for a chance to win: 

• FREE XDS 2026 ticket
• EARLY ACCESS to the report
• FREE coaching session
• exclusive XDS Spark offers!

To contribute, click on the appropriate link below:

XDS Insights Report 2025

The latest edition of the XDS Insights Report is here—your essential guide to the evolving trends in external development across games and interactive entertainment. Packed with industry data, expert analysis, and community perspectives, this year’s report provides key insights to help you navigate a rapidly changing landscape.

Financial Uncertainty is Reshaping Strategies
With heightened financial scrutiny across the industry, developers, publishers, and service providers are prioritizing cost-effective solutions, risk mitigation, and long-term value.

Shifting Priorities for Buyers and Sellers
As the external development market matures, focus has moved away from pandemic-driven growth toward service value, cost management, and sustainable partnerships.

AI’s Role in Game Development is Still Unfolding
While AI is making an impact, the extent of its long-term influence on external development remains to be seen—bringing both opportunities and challenges for the industry.

Stay ahead of the curve with insights that help you plan smarter and adapt to industry shifts. 

The research and data gathered to establish this report was collected by the organizers of the External Development Summit, with contributions from the XDS Advisory Committee.