What's Happening?
Bad Brain Game Studios, a company founded by former Ubisoft developers, is set to close on November 17th after failing to secure necessary funding. The closure follows Netease's decision to withdraw financial support. The studio had been working on a game
titled Midnight Riders, which remains available for acquisition or partnership. Despite efforts to find a new partner, the studio was unable to continue operations. This closure is part of a broader trend of Netease withdrawing from Western game development, affecting other studios like Fantastic Pixel Castle and T-Minus Zero.
Why It's Important?
The closure of Bad Brain Studios highlights the volatility in the gaming industry, particularly for smaller studios reliant on external funding. The withdrawal of Netease from Western markets could signal a shift in investment strategies, potentially impacting job security and innovation in the industry. The loss of jobs for the studio's employees comes at a challenging time for the gaming sector, which is facing increased competition and financial pressures. This development may also affect the availability of unique gaming experiences for consumers.
What's Next?
The intellectual property of Midnight Riders remains available, suggesting potential interest from other companies or investors. The broader industry may see further consolidation as smaller studios struggle to secure funding. Stakeholders in the gaming industry, including developers and investors, will likely monitor these trends closely to adapt their strategies. The closure may prompt discussions on the sustainability of funding models in the gaming sector.
