Can PlaySide Studios’ MOUSE Launch and MENAT Expansion Ignite 2026 Growth?
PlaySide Studios is gearing up for a pivotal 2026 with its highly anticipated game launch and strategic expansion into the MENAT region, underpinned by strong cost savings and leadership hires.
- MOUSE – P.I. For Hire nears launch with 1.2 million wishlists
- Annualised cost savings exceed A$6 million, boosting profitability
- First half EBITDA forecast between A$8-10 million, aided by tax offset
- Strategic senior hires expand business development in MENAT region
- Revenue expected to skew to second half with game launch in March 2026
A Sharper, Leaner PlaySide Studios
Following a comprehensive restructure, PlaySide Studios has emerged more focused and efficient, positioning itself for stronger execution in the coming year. The company’s leadership highlights nearly A$6 million in annualised cost savings, surpassing initial targets and setting a solid foundation for profitability.
Countdown to MOUSE – P.I. For Hire
With just 90 days until its release, PlaySide’s upcoming title, MOUSE – P.I. For Hire, is generating significant buzz. The game has already amassed 1.2 million wishlists on Steam, ranking it 17th globally, and the studio aims to push this figure to 1.4 million across all platforms by launch. This momentum is supported by planned marketing initiatives starting in February, including hands-on previews that should further energize the fanbase.
The excitement within the studio is palpable, with efforts focused on polishing the game and finalising partnerships for merchandise and soundtracks. This multi-faceted approach suggests PlaySide is not only banking on digital sales but also on ancillary revenue streams to bolster the launch impact.
Financial Outlook and Tax Benefits
PlaySide expects first half EBITDA to land between A$8 million and A$10 million, a figure significantly supported by a A$7.8 million uplift from the FY25 Digital Games Tax Offset claim. While first half sales revenue is forecast at A$19-20 million; down from the previous corresponding period’s A$28.5 million; this aligns with the company’s expectation of a revenue skew towards the second half, driven by the game’s March 2026 launch.
Strategic Expansion in MENAT
In a bid to capitalize on emerging markets, PlaySide has made key senior hires to bolster its business development efforts in the MENAT region. The appointments of Ozgur Ozalp, formerly of Epic Games and Riot Games, and Mahmoud Zeidan, with extensive regional experience, signal a deliberate push into a rapidly growing gaming ecosystem. Their presence in Dubai aims to forge co-development partnerships and position PlaySide as a preferred outsourcing partner for the over 100 gaming studios in the region.
This expansion complements the recent CFO transition from Darren Briggs to Colin Lai and reflects a broader strategy to scale original intellectual property and external projects.
Looking Ahead
As PlaySide Studios heads into the holiday season, the company’s strengthened leadership and operational efficiencies set the stage for a potentially transformative 2026. Investors will be watching closely for the game’s launch performance and the impact of the MENAT expansion on future growth.
Bottom Line?
PlaySide’s upcoming launch and regional expansion could redefine its growth trajectory in 2026.
Questions in the middle?
- Will MOUSE, P.I. For Hire meet or exceed its wishlist and sales targets post-launch?
- How quickly will the MENAT business development hires translate into tangible partnerships and revenue?
- What impact will the new leadership team have on PlaySide’s medium-term growth and project pipeline?
