The old Dynamix location and the current GarageGames building are less than two miles apart. (Source: Google Maps)
Image:	A much larger version of the map showing the locations of Dynamix and GarageGames and the streets in between

Jeff Tunnell says he started Dynamix and GarageGames in Eugene for a simple reason: “I like living here.” While he admits Eugene likely holds more disadvantages than advantages for a video games company, he wouldn’t want to work anywhere else.

“I never wanted to work for a big company or live in a big city. Eugene is just the right size,” he says.

Although Tunnell describes Eugene as a “one-way street” for talented employees, he says it has some advantages. For instance, there is a much lower cost of living than in places such as the San Francisco Bay Area, which is packed with software companies. Tunnell says people looking for a less-stressful hometown could enjoy financial benefits from selling their assets from costlier areas and moving to Eugene.

GarageGames isn’t even an anomaly—two other entertainment companies make their home in Eugene: Pipeworks Software and Buzz Monkey Software.

A small geographic scale is one reason Joe Maruschak enjoys Eugene. From his home in the South Hills, it takes him just 12 minutes to reach work. He contrasts this with life in a major metropolis where he might spend a few hours a day in commute.

Employees see Eugene as a good place to raise a family, and, judging by GarageGames’ success, a video games company can do all right too.