In a notable shift within the gaming industry, IO Interactive, renowned for its acclaimed Hitman franchise, is stepping into the realm of third-party publishing. This marks a significant milestone for the Danish company, which has self-published its flagship IP since 2017. The announcement, reported by GI.biz, reveals that IO Interactive will be publishing MindsEye, an action thriller developed by Build A Rocket Boy, a studio founded by Leslie Benzies, a veteran of Rockstar and co-creator of the Grand Theft Auto series.
Expanding Horizons
Hakan Abrak, CEO of IO Interactive, expressed his thoughts on this new venture, noting, “We ourselves expected to start in double-A, to be honest.” His candid reflection highlights the company’s aspirations and the strategic vision behind this expansion. “It’s true that we have been thinking about publishing other games for a while. We saw that as a natural way to go,” he added.
IO Interactive’s journey has been characterized by the development of four original intellectual properties, showcasing their ability to not only conceptualize engaging gameplay but also to nurture and grow new franchises. “Being part of the whole strategy of bringing a new IP to market, and building a community, is something we’ve done in different situations and under different circumstances,” Abrak explained.
This new partnership with Build A Rocket Boy is seen as a harmonious alignment of values and ambitions. Abrak emphasized the shared mentality and approach between the two companies, stating, “I think there is something here in terms of the mentality, attitude, dreams and approach that is compatible with Build A Rocket Boy and the good people over there.” This collaboration promises to blend IO Interactive’s rich experience in game development and publishing with the innovative spirit of Build A Rocket Boy, potentially paving the way for exciting new experiences in the gaming landscape.
