We Happy Few
News, coverage and analysis tracking We Happy Few across the outlets.
Xbox is reportedly planning to shut down Compulsion GamesXbox is reportedly planning to shut down Compulsion Games, the studio behind South of Midnight and We Happy Few. The Peabody-winning studio, acquired by Xbox in 2018, has developed three games since its founding in 2009. Negotiations between Compulsion leadership and Microsoft are reportedly ongoing.- Xbox Closing We Happy Few, South Of Midnight Developer Compulsion Games – ReportMicrosoft is reportedly planning to close Canadian developer Compulsion Games, known for We Happy Few and South of Midnight, as part of a broader restructuring of its Xbox division. This move could impact over 90 employees, and follows recent reports of potential closures for Arkane Studios. Xbox CEO Asha Sharma alluded to difficult changes ahead to improve economic stability.
South of Midnight Maker Said to Be Shuttered by XboxReports indicate that Xbox studio Compulsion Games, the developer behind South of Midnight, is set to be closed. This follows speculation about widespread layoffs within Microsoft's gaming division. While not officially confirmed, multiple employees have indicated they are seeking new work, and the studio's writer has also suggested its closure.- Several Xbox Studios at Risk of Closure, in Talks to Become IndependentSeveral Xbox first-party studios, including Compulsion Games, Double Fine, and Ninja Theory, are reportedly at risk of closure and are in negotiations with Microsoft to spin off as independent entities. This news follows comments from CEO Satya Nadella about Xbox needing to become a sustainable business. Compulsion Games' title 'South of Midnight' was recently released on PlayStation 5.
- Three Xbox Studios at Risk of Closure, in Talks to Become IndependentReports indicate that three Xbox first-party developers, Compulsion Games, Double Fine, and Ninja Theory, are at risk of closure and are in negotiations with Microsoft to become independent studios. This news follows recent speculation about potential studio closures within Xbox Game Studios, with CEO Satya Nadella emphasizing the need for Xbox to become a sustainable business.
Xbox reportedly shutting down South of Midnight dev Compulsion GamesXbox is reportedly shutting down Compulsion Games, the studio behind South of Midnight and We Happy Few. This closure, which could affect over 90 employees, comes amid broader financial challenges and restructuring within Xbox's gaming division under CEO Asha Sharma. The report suggests an official announcement is imminent.- Microsoft Has Reportedly Shut Down South of Midnight Developer Compulsion GamesMicrosoft is reportedly planning to shut down Compulsion Games, the studio behind South of Midnight and We Happy Few. The closure would mark the end of operations for the Canadian developer.
Moving Valheim away from being an MMO was "the best decision" the team madeRichard Svensson, CEO of Iron Gate Studio, stated that moving Valheim away from an MMO concept was the best design decision for the game. The studio focused on single-player and small group experiences, which allowed for a more manageable scope and unique gameplay for each biome. The article also highlights the book 'Indie Game Works' which features a chapter on Valheim's development.
Review: South Of Midnight (Switch 2) - A Port That Compromises What This Enjoyable Game Did BestThis review of South of Midnight on Nintendo Switch 2 highlights the game's enjoyable narrative and Deep South folktale-inspired setting, but criticizes the port for significant compromises. Issues like texture pop-in, frame drops, and visual fuzziness detract from the game's otherwise strong presentation and atmosphere, leading to a less immersive experience than on more powerful platforms.
South of Midnight weaves a beautiful tale on PS5South of Midnight, developed by Compulsion Games, has been released on PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch, following its initial launch on PC and Xbox Series X|S. The game, praised for its narrative exploring generational trauma and its Southern Gothic themes, has received multiple awards, including Games for Impact at the 2025 Game Awards. While the port to PlayStation 5 and Switch offers a visually stunning stop-motion art style, it suffers from minor texture issues and a lack of DualSense controller integration, though accessibility features are extensive.
"Suck my toes, my darling" - Inkle's book of essays by game writers reveals the secrets behind the worlds we play inInkle has published "The Game Narrative Kaleidoscope," a collection of over 100 essays by game writers and narrative designers covering various aspects of the craft. The book features contributions from notable figures like Jordan Mechner and Rhianna Pratchett, offering insights into creating compelling game worlds and narratives. It is structured to be read non-linearly, with essays exploring themes such as player choice, narrative tension, and the challenges faced by creators in the industry.