First-Party, Second-Party, Third-Party Video Games Explained: Developer-Publisher-Platform Relationships

These terms describe the relationship between the developer, publisher, and platform holder (console manufacturer).

First-Party

• Developer: Owned by the platform holder.
• Publisher: The platform holder.
• Examples: God of War (Sony/SIE), Halo (Microsoft/XGS), Mario/Zelda (Nintendo/EPD).
• Traits: Platform exclusive, showcase hardware, fully funded by platform holder.

Second-Party

• Developer: Independent studio with a publishing agreement / exclusivity deal with the platform holder.
• Publisher: The platform holder (or co-publish).
• Examples: Bloodborne (FromSoftware/Sony), Bayonetta 2/3 (Platinum/Nintendo), Sunset Overdrive (Insomniac/Microsoft – originally), Death Stranding (Kojima Productions/Sony – timed exclusive).
• Traits: Often exclusive (timed or permanent), IP may belong to dev or publisher.

Third-Party

• Developer: Independent studio.
• Publisher: Independent publisher (Activision, EA, Ubisoft, Square Enix, Capcom) or self-published.
• Examples: Call of Duty, Final Fantasy, Assassin's Creed, Elden Ring.
• Traits: Multi-platform (usually), own IP, negotiate own deals.

Why It Matters

• Exclusivity strategy.
• Quality control / funding source.
• IP ownership determines sequel/platform future.