PlaySide Studios has secured a global publishing agreement with Swedish developer MVRX Games for the upcoming co-op platformer 'Dew', aiming for a 2028 PC and console release. This deal marks a strategic expansion of PlaySide’s publishing portfolio, backed by a multi-million AUD investment.
- Global publishing agreement signed with MVRX Games for 'Dew'
- Game targets PC and console launch in calendar year 2028
- MVRX team includes former lead developers of the acclaimed Unravel franchise
- PlaySide to invest low-to-mid single-digit millions AUD in development and marketing
- PlaySide to manage global publishing, marketing, and distribution
A Strategic Publishing Expansion
PlaySide Studios Limited (ASX: PLY) has taken a significant step in broadening its publishing portfolio by signing a global deal with Swedish indie developer MVRX Games. The agreement centres on 'Dew', an upcoming co-op adventure platformer that promises to blend classic 2D mechanics with high-fidelity visuals and physics-based gameplay. Scheduled for release on PC and consoles in 2028, this title aligns with PlaySide’s ambition to partner with elite indie talent and deliver compelling new intellectual property to a global audience.
Leveraging Veteran Talent
MVRX Games is no newcomer to the industry spotlight. The studio’s core team includes former lead developers from Coldwood Interactive, the creators behind the critically and commercially successful Unravel franchise. This pedigree brings a level of creative assurance and industry respect that PlaySide is keen to harness. 'Dew' features two tiny heroes, Myric and Dewey, battling a corrupting force called the Necromold, set within a richly detailed micro-environment. The game’s design aims to appeal broadly, combining emotional storytelling with engaging cooperative gameplay.
Investment and Partnership Terms
Under the terms of the agreement, PlaySide will provide development advances tied to clearly defined technical and creative milestones, reflecting industry-standard benchmarks. The company is committing a low-to-mid single-digit million AUD investment across development and marketing efforts prior to launch. In return, PlaySide will oversee all global publishing, marketing, and distribution activities, securing a share of net revenues from the game’s sales. This milestone-based funding approach mitigates risk while supporting the creative process.
Positioning for Long-Term Growth
PlaySide’s CEO Benn Skender emphasised the significance of partnering with MVRX Games, highlighting the team’s proven ability to craft emotionally resonant and visually stunning games. This deal not only reinforces PlaySide’s publishing credentials but also signals its commitment to nurturing high-quality indie projects with global appeal. With a release horizon set for 2028, the company is positioning itself for sustained growth in a competitive market, leveraging both its development expertise and expanding publishing capabilities.
As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, PlaySide’s strategic investments in promising IP and veteran talent could prove pivotal in capturing new audiences and revenue streams over the coming years.
Bottom Line?
PlaySide’s deal with MVRX Games sets the stage for a high-profile 2028 launch, underscoring its growing influence in indie game publishing.
Questions in the middle?
- What specific revenue share terms has PlaySide secured from 'Dew' sales?
- How will PlaySide manage the long development timeline to ensure milestone targets are met?
- Could this partnership lead to further collaborations with MVRX Games or similar veteran indie studios?