Pocketpair’s Palworld Already Making Waves

Pocketpair Launches New Publishing Arm to Champion Indie Developers

Pocketpair, renowned for its hit game Palworld, has embarked on a new journey. This gaming powerhouse is now stepping into the world of publishing with their latest endeavor, Pocketpair Publishing. Their mission? To empower indie developers with essential funding, development assistance, and publishing services. The studio has already unveiled its first collaboration with Surgent Studios, creators of Tales of Kenzera: Zau. Together, they’re brewing a new horror game set for release later this year.

A Tremendous Reception

In just a week since the announcement, Pocketpair Publishing is already making waves. Developers’ responses have been nothing short of overwhelming. Over 400 emails and 150 pitches have flooded their inbox. Moreover, they’ve received more than 2,000 LinkedIn requests, all from developers eager to forge alliances. While they can’t address every proposal, their commitment to aiding promising games remains steadfast.

The gaming industry isn’t new to developers stepping into the publishing arena. YouTube critic videogamedunkey, for example, founded Bigmode in 2022 and gave us the acclaimed game Animal Well. Similarly, Innersloth, the masterminds behind Among Us, kicked off Outersloth, an indie game fund aimed at lending a helping hand to smaller studios.

A Timely Intervention

Pocketpair’s foray into publishing couldn’t have come at a more pressing time. Indie developers are facing hurdles like massive layoffs and dwindling funds from major publishers. Pocketpair’s support aims to safeguard creative freedoms and ensure creators maintain control over their projects.

The partnership with Surgent Studios is particularly noteworthy. Facing funding issues, Surgent had pressed pause on their game development. Thanks to Pocketpair, they can finally resume work on a standalone horror adventure, distinct from the Tales of Kenzera universe. It’s set to spook players later this year.

Unwavering Commitment to Creative Empowerment

Takuro Mizobe, Pocketpair’s CEO, has been vocal about their vision. They aspire to help developers bring their dream projects to life without wresting control from them. This initiative is reflective of an encouraging trend in the gaming industry. Successful indie developers are stepping forward to aid their peers, ensuring smaller studios receive the backing they need amidst the tough climate of funding shortages and production challenges.

In closing, Pocketpair’s pivot from development to publishing underscores a broader movement in the gaming world. By channeling their success into this new venture, they are championing the indie spirit, nurturing creativity, and ensuring players continue experiencing a diverse range of games. As such, the gaming community is poised to see an exciting influx of unique narratives and innovative projects.