Publishing
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Amazon walks back comments about taking 007 off of IO, but does say 'anything's possible' when it comes…
Amazon has walked back previous comments suggesting that future 007 games might be developed by Amazon Game Studios, with general manager Jeff Gattis now stating that IO Interactive would likely develop a sequel given the success of 007 First Light. While Amazon owns the rights and may publish, Gattis also mentioned that anything is possible regarding Amazon acquiring IO Interactive, though no such conversations are currently happening.
Amazon “probably want IOI” developing a sequel to 007 First Light
Amazon Game Studios general manager Jeff Gattis suggested that IO Interactive would likely develop a sequel to the successful game 007 First Light, although no official discussions have begun. While Amazon MGM holds the rights to future James Bond video games, Gattis emphasized a desire to do what's best for the game and its creators. The original game sold 3 million copies in two weeks and a Nintendo Switch version is forthcoming.
Amazon clarifies stance on 007: First Light sequel – "Given the success of this one, I think you probably want IOI developing it"
Amazon Game Studios general manager Jeff Gattis clarified that no decisions have been made regarding a sequel to 007: First Light, despite Amazon owning the game's rights. He indicated that IO Interactive, the original developer, would likely be involved in any future installments due to the game's success. Gattis also commented on the possibility of acquiring IO Interactive, stating that while "anything's possible," no such conversations are currently happening.
Former PlayStation boss Shawn Layden wants to save games by bringing back double-A - and he has a plan
Former PlayStation boss Shawn Layden believes the current blockbuster game development model is unsustainable due to exponentially rising costs. He is developing a plan to revitalize the underserved double-A market, arguing that this tier of games is more economically feasible and can attract new players to the industry.
Xbox’s ‘Reset’ – What its Franchise-First Future Could Look Like | IGN Opinion
This opinion piece explores Xbox's potential future strategy of releasing its major franchises more frequently, including titles like Halo, The Elder Scrolls, and Fallout. It suggests ways Xbox could leverage its resources to achieve this goal.
What does the future of external development look like?
Industry leaders discuss the evolving landscape of external development in the gaming industry, predicting a shift towards more strategic, integrated partnerships rather than simple outsourcing. Factors like AI, increasing game complexity, and publisher budget pressures are driving this change, leading to a more specialized and collaborative approach.
Denshattack interview: dev talks influences, Nintendo Switch 2, pursuing the project despite publisher rejections, more
David Jaumandreu, studio and game director at Undercoders, discusses the influences behind their upcoming game Denshattack, including Jet Set Radio and Tony Hawk's Pro Skater. He also touches on the decision to support the Nintendo Switch 2 and the challenges of pursuing the project despite publisher rejections. The game is set to release on Nintendo Switch 2 on July 15, 2026.
Why two games media veterans think a "classic old-school style multi-format video games website" will flourish in 2026
Two veterans of the games media industry, Tom Orry and Alex Donaldson, have launched Respec, a new website aiming to revive the 'classic old-school style multi-format video games website' model. They believe a lean operation with a clear voice and reader support can succeed in 2026, contrasting with the current landscape dominated by larger outlets and influencers. Respec will focus on text-based coverage, supported by a podcast and YouTube channel, with a distinctively British tone and a business model combining advertising with reader revenue via Patreon.
Business and Finance
Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. will announce its first quarter fiscal year 2027 financial results on August 7, 2026. Additionally, Nexon will take over PC publishing duties for Overwatch in South Korea.
MINIBOSS SOLUTIONS FORMS ADVISORY BOARD, NAMES INAUGURAL MEMBERS
Miniboss Solutions, an embedded publishing leadership team, has established an advisory board with industry veterans Sarah Anderson and Yoshio Osaki as its inaugural members. The board will provide strategic counsel to Miniboss as it assists game studios like Smilegate and VOID Interactive with publishing strategy and execution. This move aims to enhance Miniboss's expertise and support its growth as a leader in the games industry.
"There's a wealth of talent here, our focus is on how to leverage and support it" – Atari appoints Andreas Deptolla as Atari Europe president
Atari has appointed Andreas Deptolla as the new president of Atari Europe, overseeing approximately 100 employees and European headquarters. Richard Snowdon, CEO of Coatsink, has been named vice president of Atari Europe. Deptolla aims to leverage European talent and support acquired studios by focusing on core values and providing expertise in areas like finance and publishing, while also exploring organic growth in distribution and licensing.
With the sword of Microsoft hanging over it, Blizzard quietly drops Overwatch in Korea into the hands of Nexon
Blizzard Entertainment is transferring publishing duties for Overwatch in Korea to Nexon, with a new PC service set to launch on August 12. This move comes amidst significant restructuring within Microsoft's gaming division, including layoffs and studio divestitures. Nexon aims to enhance the Overwatch experience through hyperlocalization and advanced live operations.
Blizzard and Nexon announce a publishing collab for Overwatch in South Korea
Blizzard Entertainment and Nexon have announced that Nexon will take over the publishing of Overwatch in South Korea starting August 12. This transition will effectively launch a locally managed version of the PC game for players in the region, with registration and account linking now open. Nexon plans to offer various benefits, including potential Korea-exclusive content and events, to enhance the player experience.
David Gaider's Heist Game Pitch
David Gaider, creator of the Dragon Age series, discusses a new heist game he is currently pitching to publishers. He describes this project as a critical "make or break" moment for his career in game development.
Alongside its own big successes, Saber Interactive is sticking with indies - here's why
Saber Interactive's Tim Willits and Todd Hollenshead discussed the studio's commitment to supporting indie games, even as they work on their own larger titles like Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2. They highlighted lessons learned from working with smaller teams on games like Bus Bound and The Knightling, emphasizing the importance of focused game design and proper scoping. Saber Interactive aims to continue partnering with independent developers in the future.
Fantasy meets reality: Why turmoil at Xbox is impacting IO Interactive and Project Fantasy
IO Interactive's online fantasy RPG, Project Fantasy, is in turmoil after Xbox Game Studios Publishing reportedly pulled its funding. Despite this setback, IO Interactive remains committed to the project and is restructuring to continue development. This situation highlights the shifting priorities within Xbox under new CEO Asha Sharma, impacting independent studios reliant on external partnerships.
Hideo Kojima's experimental Xbox exclusive, OD, is reportedly safe from Microsoft cuts
Hideo Kojima's upcoming experimental Xbox exclusive, OD, is reportedly safe from recent cancellations and funding cuts within the Xbox division. Despite Microsoft reevaluating its gaming priorities, sources indicate that OD will continue to be published by Xbox. The game, described as a new form of media blending film and gaming, is being developed by Kojima Productions and features involvement from director Jordan Peele.
Kepler Interactive acquires stake in indie publisher Oro Interactive from venture capital firm
Kepler Interactive has acquired a stake in Belgian indie publisher Oro Interactive from venture capital firm ForsVC. This marks ForsVC's first exit, yielding a significant return on investment in under two years. Oro Interactive will continue to operate independently with Kepler as its primary investor.
1666: Amsterdam Was Originally Going to be Published by Xbox Before Funding Was Cut
1666: Amsterdam, a dark narrative action game from Panache Digital Games, was originally planned for publication by Xbox. However, Microsoft cut funding for the project, leading the studio to pursue self-publishing. The game, led by former Assassin's Creed creator Patrice Désilets, is in development for PC and features dark fantasy aesthetics.
Jagex confirms "landmark publishing partnerships" to bring RuneScape to Japan, South Korea, and South East Asia
RuneScape developer Jagex has announced two new publishing partnerships to bring RuneScape: Dragonwilds to Japan, South Korea, and South East Asia. These deals with Graph (Active Gaming Media) and H2 Interactive mark the first time Jagex will use third-party publishers for its games, as part of its RS25 strategy for global expansion. The game will feature localization in Simplified Chinese, Japanese, and Korean.
