German studio Piranha Bytes, responsible for games such as Gothic, Risen, and Elex, is currently in an uncertain situation. Andre Peschke, a German industry journalist, shared information with CD-Action regarding the ongoing conflict within the studio and their plans for the future. According to Peschke, the main cause of the rift was the departure of Björn Pankratz, one of the co-founders of Piranha Bytes, who was in charge of the creative direction of the projects.
The studio intended to move away from large-scale science fiction and focus on smaller, dark fantasy worlds. Unfortunately, Björn was not interested in returning to the Gothic brand or similar projects, which led to conflicts and divisions within the team. Elex 2, the studio’s latest game, did not achieve success, and the decision to release it a week after Elden Ring’s premiere was criticized by the employees.
Currently, Piranha Bytes is seeking a new publisher who would be interested in the studio. According to Peschke, at least two potential publishers have expressed interest in acquiring Piranha Bytes. The studio is also considering organizing a Kickstarter campaign in case negotiations with publishers fail.
Despite the uncertain situation, Piranha Bytes still hopes to survive. If they find a new publisher, the studio could retain funding of up to three million euros for the development of Elex 3. It is worth noting that the current times are not favorable for studio acquisitions, but there is a chance that Piranha Bytes will find a solution and continue their operations.
The studio owners are hopeful that a new development path will be established soon. Piranha Bytes plans to release an official statement, but it is not yet certain how they will be able to fully disclose details due to their collaboration with the current publisher. The success of the studio depends on their ability to find a partner who will help them continue their projects.
Piranha Bytes, the German studio responsible for games such as Gothic, Risen, and Elex, is currently experiencing internal conflict due to the departure of one of its co-founders, Björn Pankratz. The studio intended to focus on a smaller, dark fantasy world, but Björn was not interested in returning to the Gothic brand or similar projects, leading to a rift within the team. The studio is currently looking for a new publisher and considering organizing a Kickstarter campaign if they fail to find one. Piranha Bytes still hopes to survive and retain funding of up to three million euros for the development of Elex 3. The studio owners are counting on finding a partner who will help them continue their projects.
Definitions:
1. Gothic – A series of computer games developed by Piranha Bytes, set in a dark fantasy world.
2. Risen – A series of computer games developed by Piranha Bytes, set in a fantasy world with pirate elements.
3. Elex – A computer game developed by Piranha Bytes, combining a post-apocalyptic world with science fiction elements.
Suggested Related Links:
– Piranha Bytes Official Website
– Kickstarter
– CD-Action
The source of the article is from the blog jomfruland.net