Harebrained Schemes and Paradox Interactive announce plans to "part ways"
following
the disappointing launch of turn-based
strategy game
The Lamplighters League. Paradox acquired the
BATTLETECH
and
Shadowrun developer
in 2018, but
the two companies will consciously uncouple as of January 1, 2024. Paradox will
retain The Lamplighters League IP, and Harebrained will be free to pursue new
deals with other publishers. Harebrained will continue to support the game in
the meantime. Here's more:
Paradox Interactive (Paradox) and Harebrained
Schemes (HBS) – developers of the Shadowrun trilogy, BATTLETECH and The
Lamplighters League – have decided to part ways on 1 January 2024. The
separation is the result of a mutual agreement, stemming from each party’s
strategic and creative priorities. Paradox will retain ownership of The
Lamplighters League and other games developed by the studio. HBS will seek new
publishing, partnership, and investment opportunities.
“Paradox has refocused its strategy towards its core niches within strategy and
management games with endless qualities,” said Charlotta Nilsson, COO of
Paradox. “We and HBS’ leadership have been discussing what would happen after
the release of The Lamplighters League, but a new project or sequel in the same
genre was not in line with our portfolio plans. Hence, we believe that a
separation would be the best way forward. We’re very happy that this talented,
gifted studio has the chance to continue and can’t wait to see what they will
make next.”
“Harebrained Schemes will support The Lamplighters League through the end of the
year while we seek funding and partnerships for an independent future in 2024,"
said Brian Poel, Studio Operations Manager of HBS. “Our studio mission remains
the same: to make games that challenge your mind and touch your heart.”