Naughty Dog's founder, Jason Rubin, reflects on the studio's departure from the Crash Bandicoot franchise and their tumultuous relationship with Universal Interactive. In a candid interview, Rubin paints a picture of a partnership that was more detrimental than beneficial, marked by a lack of support and a disregard for the studio's needs. He describes a situation where the studio's offices were placed in a corporate building, with no air conditioning, leading to extreme temperatures that affected their work on Crash Team Racing. This highlights the absurdity of the situation and the lack of respect shown by Universal.
Rubin's frustration is evident as he details the financial disparity between the investment Universal made and the treatment they received. Despite receiving a substantial sum, Universal's actions, such as the threatening behavior of an employee and the inadequate office conditions, created an environment that was hostile and unproductive. The studio's move to Sony, which resulted in the continued development of Crash Team Racing, was a necessary step to ensure the franchise's survival.
The interview also touches on the potential for a Crash Bandicoot attraction at Universal Studios, a missed opportunity due to the strained relationship. Rubin's perspective on the situation is one of disappointment and a sense of what could have been. He reflects on the success of Crash Bandicoot and the potential for a more collaborative and mutually beneficial partnership.
Looking beyond Crash Bandicoot, Rubin's career has taken him to THQ and Oculus VR, and eventually to Meta, where he became VP of metaverse content. His journey showcases a commitment to the gaming industry and a willingness to explore new avenues, even as he reflects on the past with a sense of nostalgia and a desire to learn from the challenges faced with Universal Interactive.
