Three seasoned professionals from the UK gaming industry have embarked on an exciting new venture, launching an indie publishing house known as The CoLab. The founding trio—Darren Newnham, Mark Faulkner, and John Lewis—brings a wealth of experience from their previous roles at notable companies. Newnham has honed his skills at United Label, Fnatic, and Disney Interactive, while Faulkner’s journey includes significant positions at Jagex, PlayFusion, and Bossa. Lewis, on the other hand, boasts a rich background with Codemasters and Criterion.
Innovative Projects and a Commitment to Wellbeing
The CoLab has already lined up three intriguing projects: a cozy game codenamed Campfire, a cyberpunk shooter titled DeadWire, and a strategy game known as Counter Clash. In a noteworthy move, the publisher has partnered with the charity Safe in Our World, emphasizing the importance of mental wellbeing for those working within the gaming industry.
In light of recent challenges faced by the sector, The CoLab aims to provide essential support to indie developers during what many consider a turbulent period. “It’s time for a rebellion. We stand for cooperation and collaboration in an industry that desperately needs it,” stated CEO Newnham. He highlighted the pressing issues of the current landscape, noting that trends such as mass redundancies driven by ‘greedflation’ have illuminated the urgent need for a paradigm shift.
Newnham pointed out that publishers often prioritize shareholder value over the needs of gamers, resulting in a cycle where unfinished games are released at inflated prices. Developers, too, have encountered significant hurdles, including project cancellations, unpaid labor, and even the loss of intellectual property.
The CoLab seeks to instigate change through a counter-revolutionary vision. “We unite innovative game creators, share resources, and empower developers to thrive in a highly competitive market,” Newnham explained. “Our goal is to make every developer who joins The CoLab an integral part of our collective, fostering a supportive environment that promotes long-term relationships and rewarding returns.”
