Owlcat Games, renowned for their captivating cRPGs, has taken a bold step into the realm of publishing. This exciting development was announced on their website on August 13th, signaling a new era for the studio. Previously celebrated for self-publishing hits like Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous and Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader, Owlcat is now set to amplify the voices of other developers through their new publishing arm, established after acquiring META Publishing in 2021. Their mission? To champion narrative-driven games and enrich the gaming landscape with innovative storytelling.
Owlcat's venture into publishing is driven by a passion to extend their influence beyond their own game development. They are eager to collaborate with studios that share their enthusiasm for crafting immersive narrative experiences. By becoming a publisher, Owlcat aims to equip these developers with the resources and support necessary to realize their creative visions. This move underscores Owlcat's dedication to fostering a vibrant gaming community and nurturing the next wave of storytelling in games.
As part of their new publishing role, Owlcat has carefully selected two promising projects to kickstart their portfolio. These titles align perfectly with their focus on narrative-driven gameplay, showcasing their commitment to rich, engaging stories.
First up is Rue Valley from Emotion Spark Studio in Serbia. This narrative RPG places players in the shoes of a protagonist caught in a mysterious time loop within a secluded town. The game delves into themes of mental challenges and personal growth, as the main character seeks to unravel the enigma. Owlcat's expertise will be instrumental in enhancing the game's storytelling and player engagement.
Next, from Poland, Another Angle Games is crafting Shadow of the Road, an isometric RPG set in an alternate feudal Japan. This game blends samurai culture, honor, and allegiance with a tactical turn-based combat system. Players will explore a world teeming with magical yokai and steampunk technology, offering a unique mix of narrative depth and strategic gameplay. Owlcat's involvement will ensure the game's successful development and launch.
Both Rue Valley and Shadow of the Road are in the early stages of development, with more details expected later this month. These titles exemplify Owlcat's dedication to supporting innovative and engaging narrative experiences. As these games progress, Owlcat plans to share more insights into the worlds and stories they will bring to players.
Owlcat's transition to publishing marks a significant milestone in their journey, aiming to foster a diverse range of storytelling experiences and contribute to the growth of the gaming industry. Their efforts will not only spotlight emerging talent but also enhance the variety and depth of narrative-driven games available to players worldwide.