Paradox and Harebrained Schemes split after The Lamplighters League failure

Paradox Interactive and Harebrained Schemes part ways after The Lamplighters League flop

Paradox Interactive and Harebrained Schemes have announced the end of their collaboration following the disappointing release of The Lamplighters League. Seattle-based game developer Harebrained Schemes was acquired by Swedish publisher Paradox Interactive in 2018. However, from 1st January 2024, Harebrained will no longer be a part of the company. According to a press release, the separation is a "mutual agreement, resulting from the strategic and creative priorities of each company".

The timing of this decision appears to be linked to the recent lukewarm commercial reception of the tactical turn-based strategy game The Lamplighters League by Harebrained Schemes. Harebrained Schemes will retain the rights to The Lamplighters League and other IP of the studio. The developer pledges to continue supporting the game at least until the end of this year, while seeking funding and partnerships to secure an independent future.

The Lamplighters League, set in an alternative version of the 1930s, centers around a group called the Lamplighters League tasked with stopping a cult known as the Banished Court from taking over the world. Players navigate a diverse team through various environments - from ports and deserts to jungles and urban areas, recruiting new members along the way. The Lamplighters League is available on PC, Xbox Series X and S, and Game Pass.