In a reversal of the usual state of affairs, a game studio is investing in a publisher, with the simple aim of finding more cool indie games.
Alastair Janse van Rensburg, the developer of the successful game PlateUp, has partnered with Yogscast Games in a unique move where the developer is investing in the publisher. PlateUp, released in 2022, has generated over $17.2 million in revenue across various platforms. Van Rensburg, previously a cybersecurity researcher, received a royalty payment of over £1 million from the game's success.
Yogscast Games and It's Happening, van Rensburg's company, have formed an "indie super-group" with It's Happening acquiring a 30% stake in Yogscast. The partnership aims to focus on identifying and nurturing indie game talent. Simon Byron, managing director of Yogscast Games, highlighted the collaborative and developer-focused nature of their relationship, emphasizing the importance of supporting first-time game developers.
Byron expressed the challenges in the evolving gaming market, noting the increasing competition and changing dynamics in game development and publishing. He emphasized the importance of identifying standout games and adapting to the shifting landscape of the industry.
