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People Can Fly cuts over 120 more jobs
AppWizard
December 11, 2024

People Can Fly cuts over 120 more jobs

Polish developer People Can Fly has announced a workforce reduction of over 120 positions, marking the second round of layoffs this year. This decision was prompted by the cancellation and downsizing of several projects, including the complete shelving of Project Victoria and a reduction in the team for Project Bifrost. CEO Sebastian Wojciechowski expressed regret over the layoffs and emphasized the need to reevaluate the company's direction due to ongoing challenges in the video game market. The company is shifting focus towards new work-for-hire engagements and the development of a single independent game. Earlier in January, the company had already laid off 30 staff members.
The Big Indie Interviews: Message Photon on their award-winning roguelike Painted Peril
AppWizard
November 17, 2024

The Big Indie Interviews: Message Photon on their award-winning roguelike Painted Peril

Painted Peril secured second place in The Very Big Indie Pitch at Pocket Gamer Connects Helsinki. The game is a roguelike experience developed by a team from Finland, where players explore a world of color magic and combine hues to create spells. The project originated about 1.5 years ago as a university course initiative at Chalmers University of Technology, where a group of six students developed the initial prototype and won the Jury Spotlight Award at the Gotland Game Conference. Players control Sylvia the squirrel, navigating a cave system and using color effects and spellcasting mechanics. The game includes various bottles that affect spell behavior, promoting experimentation with color combinations. Emil Ekroth, a developer, discussed the challenges of indie development, emphasizing the need for versatility and motivation. The pitching experience highlighted the importance of clear communication. The team is exploring publishing options for Painted Peril, including potential self-publishing on Steam.
Remedy revenue more than doubles year-on-year
AppWizard
November 4, 2024

Remedy revenue more than doubles year-on-year

Finnish gaming company Remedy Entertainment reported a 128.6% increase in revenue for the quarter ending September 30th, reaching €17.9 million, up from €7.8 million the previous year. EBITDA improved to €6.6 million from a loss of €4.2 million. The growth is attributed to strategic partnerships, including a deal with Annapurna to co-finance Control 2 and funding from Rockstar for remakes of Max Payne. Remedy also announced a €15 million convertible loan agreement with Tencent to strengthen its financial position.
IO inks publishing deal for Build A Rocket Boy's MindsEye
AppWizard
October 17, 2024

IO inks publishing deal for Build A Rocket Boy’s MindsEye

IO Interactive is transitioning into third-party publishing after self-publishing its Hitman franchise since 2017. The company will publish MindsEye, an action thriller developed by Build A Rocket Boy, founded by Leslie Benzies, a former Rockstar executive. CEO Hakan Abrak indicated that the company has been considering this move for some time and sees it as a natural progression. Abrak highlighted the shared values and ambitions between IO Interactive and Build A Rocket Boy, suggesting a strong partnership for future projects.
WhatsApp novelists use messaging app to write and sell books in Zimbabwe
AppWizard
August 31, 2024

WhatsApp novelists use messaging app to write and sell books in Zimbabwe

Kingston Dhewa is a fruit and vegetable vendor in Budiriro 5, Zimbabwe, who has published 43 novels, primarily in Shona, inspired by African rural life. He began writing in high school but pursued it seriously during the COVID-19 pandemic after joining a WhatsApp community of writers. Dhewa releases his stories in serialized form. Pamela Ngirazi, another author, has over 21,000 followers and uses WhatsApp Channels to broadcast her romance novels. The trend of digital publishing in Zimbabwe has been driven by economic challenges, making WhatsApp a crucial platform for authors to reach readers. The e-books market in Africa is expected to grow, but data costs pose a barrier. Traditional publishing faces challenges, including piracy and declining sales. Concerns about copyright and intellectual property rights are prevalent, with emphasis on the importance of registering works. Despite the limitations of self-publishing, Dhewa remains hopeful for literary recognition.
Modern Wolf vets found new agency Secret Sauce
AppWizard
June 19, 2024

Modern Wolf vets found new agency Secret Sauce

Former Modern Wolf employees George Willard and Sophie Atkin have founded a new agency called Secret Sauce, which aims to assist indie developers with branding, marketing, PR, self-publishing support, and business development. Willard brings experience from Creative Assembly, while Atkin has a background in event production and business development. The agency's inspiration came from addressing common industry challenges, and they emphasize honesty and clarity in their approach with clients.
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