Bad Brain Game Studios, founded by ex-Ubisoft developers, is set to shut down on November 17, 2025, due to a lack of funding after Netease pulled its support. The studio's upcoming project, Midnight Riders, remains available for acquisition or partnership. They expressed gratitude for the team's efforts and the positive response to their game, despite the disappointing outcome. This closure is part of a broader trend as Netease shifts from Western game development, previously impacting other studios like Fantastic Pixel Castle and T-Minus Zero.
What is the reason behind Bad Brain Game Studios' closure?The closure is primarily due to insufficient funding after the studio's financial backer, Netease, withdrew its support, leading to the inability to sustain operations and complete the upcoming game, Midnight Riders.
Midnight Riders was anticipated to be an engaging action-adventure game from the team that includes developers who worked on titles like Watch Dogs: Legion. This background highlights the experience behind the project, making the studio's closure particularly noteworthy in the gaming community as it reflects the challenges faced in securing support in a challenging market.
Alex Riverton
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Comments
Another promising project gets caught in the publisher shuffle - feels like we're seeing the indie dream get harder to chase these days. Really hope another studio recognizes Midnight Riders' potential and gives it the runway it deserves.
Man, it's always tough seeing talented devs get sidelined by corporate chess moves. Hopefully Midnight Riders finds a new home—that team's pedigree deserves to see the light of day.