Bad Brain Game Studios Set to Close Amid Funding Issues
Summary:
- Bad Brain Game Studios, a recent venture by ex-Ubisoft developers, will cease operations due to funding challenges.
- The studio was unable to secure a new publisher for its upcoming project, Midnight Riders.
- Other NetEase studios are also facing similar closures, indicating broader industry funding struggles.
As reported on November 6, 2023, in the evolving landscape of the gaming industry, another overseas studio under the NetEase umbrella is set to close its doors. Bad Brain Game Studios, located in Toronto and founded in 2023 by former team members from Ubisoft and the development team of Watch Dogs: Legion, has announced its impending closure due to difficulties securing new publishing partnerships.
Background on Bad Brain Game Studios
Founded just last year, Bad Brain Game Studios was formed by a group of professionals with a wealth of experience in the gaming world. Their flagship project, Midnight Riders, showcased the team’s passion for innovation and creativity, but despite their efforts, the studio faced insurmountable challenges in obtaining necessary funding.
Reason for Closure
Studio head Sean Crooks expressed his sorrow at the studio’s closure, which is scheduled for November 17, 2023. In his statement, Crooks emphasized the team’s diligent efforts to seek new partners but lamented the uncertain future. “We have been looking for new partners, but the future is still unclear,” he remarked, acknowledging the difficulties that have led to this decision.
Farewell to Creative Aspirations
Crooks expressed immense gratitude towards NetEase Games for providing support during the studio’s brief existence. He highlighted the creativity and dedication of the team, stating that their combined talents had pushed the boundaries of gaming technology and imagination. “What we have achieved together is a testament to the extraordinary talent of the team,” he stated.
The studio also released a brief video featuring Midnight Riders, publicly inviting investors or publishers to explore options for saving the project. Crooks remarked on the enthusiastic response from players and industry peers, reiterating the team’s commitment to bringing their creative vision to fruition. Despite these efforts, the ability to move forward remained out of reach, leading to the studio’s eventual shutdown.
Broader Industry Funding Challenges
Bad Brain Game Studios is not alone in facing such obstacles. Just recently, another NetEase studio, Fantastic Pixel Castle, also announced its closure due to funding shortages, with both studios’ shutdowns coinciding on November 17. Reports indicate that NetEase has made several difficult decisions, parting ways with other studios including Worlds Untold, co-founded by Mass Effect writer Mac Walters, and Jar of Sparks, established by Xbox veteran Jerry Hook. In addition, Ouka Studio in Tokyo, previously involved with Square Enix’s Visions of Mana, also closed last year, signaling a broader trend of financial instability within the gaming industry.
The Future of Midnight Riders
Despite these setbacks, Crooks remains hopeful. The intellectual property for Midnight Riders is now available for acquisition or collaboration, as he firmly believes in the potential of the world the team has created. “We believe in the world we have created and hope it can finally be presented to players,” he stated, leaving the door open for future opportunities.
Conclusion
The closing of Bad Brain Game Studios serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by independent studios in a competitive marketplace. The difficulties of securing funding and partnerships in the gaming industry are becoming increasingly evident, putting pressure on new ventures. As the industry landscape evolves, it’s crucial for aspiring studios to navigate these challenges carefully, ensuring sustainability and innovation as they strive to create captivating experiences for gamers worldwide.
The narrative of Bad Brain Game Studios encapsulates the passion and dedication that small teams bring to the gaming industry, highlighting the inherent risks involved in pursuing creative aspirations. With the closing of the studio, the gaming community reflects on both the achievements and obstacles that define this dynamic field.
