faz.net
Keen Games Self-Publishes "Enshrouded," Secures Funding, and Creates 30 Jobs
Keen Games, a German developer, self-published its new game, "Enshrouded," after past negative experiences with publishers, securing €2 million in government funding and attracting investors to finance the €10+ million development cost. The game, available on Steam for about €30, has already created 30 new jobs, doubling the company's workforce since 2019.
- What are the key factors contributing to Keen Games' decision to self-publish "Enshrouded," and what are the immediate consequences?
- The German game developer Keen Games is self-publishing its new game, "Enshrouded," after having negative experiences with publishers in the past. This decision, coupled with securing €2 million in federal funding and attracting investors, allowed them to create 30 new jobs and significantly increase investment in the game's development. Keen is using the Steam online store for distribution, pricing the game at around €30.
- How did Keen Games secure funding for "Enshrouded," and what are the broader implications of its funding strategy for the gaming industry?
- Keen Games' shift to self-publishing reflects a broader trend in the gaming industry where developers are seeking greater control over their intellectual property and revenue streams. By securing funding and attracting investors, Keen demonstrates the evolving landscape of game development financing and the potential for independent studios to compete with larger publishers. The success of "Enshrouded" could inspire other independent developers to pursue similar strategies.
- What are the potential long-term impacts of Keen Games' self-publishing model and remote-work policy on the gaming industry and the company itself?
- The success of "Enshrouded" will significantly impact Keen Games' future, potentially leading to further growth, job creation, and increased investment in game development. The game's innovative approach to self-publishing and leveraging government funding could also influence industry practices, creating new opportunities for independent studios. The company's remote-work model enables it to recruit talent from a wider geographical area, showcasing a trend towards flexible work structures in the tech sector.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative emphasizes the financial success and growth of Keen Games, highlighting the funding received, job creation, and the decision to self-publish. This framing might lead readers to focus on the business aspects more than the creative or artistic elements of the game.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral and factual, though descriptions like "bitter experience" and "bittere Erfahrung" (in the original text) carry a slight negative connotation when discussing the previous publisher. More neutral phrasing like "unsuccessful collaboration" or "experience with a previous publisher" could be used for better objectivity.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the financial aspects and development process of the game "Enshrouded," but provides limited information on the gameplay itself beyond a brief description of the setting and core mechanics. There is no mention of reviews, critical reception, or player engagement. This omission limits the reader's ability to form a complete understanding of the game's success or impact.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified view of the choice to self-publish "Enshrouded," contrasting it with the negative experience with a previous publisher. It doesn't explore other potential publishing models or the complexities of self-publishing, such as increased financial risk and workload.
Gender Bias
The article focuses primarily on the CEO, Jöckel, and doesn't provide information about the gender composition of the Keen Games team. The lack of diverse perspectives and representation could unintentionally reinforce gender bias in the game development industry.