Lab42
Lab42 business and news from across the web.
Latest coverage
Should you work on your own games as an external development studio?
This article explores whether external development studios should also work on their own original games alongside client projects. While some studios like Redcatpig and Lab42 see internal projects as crucial for team motivation, skill development, and creative outlets, others like Code Wizards and Airship prioritize their service-based business model to avoid resource drain and client competition. The consensus suggests that while internal projects can offer significant benefits, careful management and clear focus are essential to balance them with external work.
What lessons have developers learned from external development?
External development studios emphasize the critical importance of trust and clear communication with clients, often valuing these over raw talent. Key lessons learned include aligning visions, being adaptable to client workflows, adding value beyond basic tasks, specializing in core competencies, and continuously updating technology and processes. Careful scaling and scope discipline are also vital for long-term success in the external development sector.
A Storied Life: Tabitha Lets You Sort Through the Home and Belongings of a Lost Loved One
A Storied Life: Tabitha, a casual indie puzzle game developed by Lab42 and published by Secret Mode, is now available on PC and Nintendo Switch. Inspired by games like Unpacking, it features a watercolour art style and a narrative focused on reconstructing the life story of a deceased relative named Tabitha by sorting through her belongings and damaged memoirs.
"We now have a clear vision for how Sumo fits into the new world" - inside the slimmed-down Sumo Group
Sumo Group, now co-led by Gary Dunn and Andy Stewart, is refocusing exclusively on co-development and work-for-hire services for partners, moving away from self-funded IP. This strategic shift follows staff reductions and the divestment of several studios, with support from parent company Tencent. The company aims to leverage its expertise in working with established IPs and offers flexible funding models, including co-funding, to collaborate on projects across various platforms like PC, consoles, and Roblox.
Secret Mode busted out of the Tencent-owned Sumo Group last year. Now what?
Secret Mode, an indie publisher owned by Sumo Group (which is in turn owned by Tencent), has successfully gained independence with the help of investment firm Emona Capital. This move came after Sumo Group announced a shift to exclusively focus on development services. Secret Mode's CEO Ed Blincoe and chief publishing officer James Schall detail the rapid acquisition process and the publisher's subsequent growth, including new hires and ambitious projects like Star Wars: Galactic Racer.
