In a shocking turn of events, Versus Evil, the renowned game publisher responsible for notable titles like The Banner Saga and Pillars Of Eternity 2, has met its demise. The company has been forced to shut its doors, resulting in the unfortunate laying off of its entire staff. This disheartening news was shared by former director of product strategy, Francis Fincke, who expressed his sadness on LinkedIn. To confirm the unfortunate reality, the official Versus Evil account on X also shared a heartfelt message, bidding farewell to its loyal community.
With its establishment in 2013, Versus Evil quickly became a prominent name in the indie game publishing scene. Throughout its 10-year journey, the company has brought to life a multitude of critically acclaimed indie games that have captivated players worldwide. Tower Of Guns, Amikrog, Faeria, and numerous other titles bear the stamp of Versus Evil’s involvement. The publisher’s dedication to showcasing the best indie games available has garnered the admiration of the gaming community, fostering lasting memories and strong bonds.
Unfortunately, the final chapter in Versus Evil’s legacy is marred by a legal dispute with the buyer, tinyBuild. Steve Escalante, the founder of Versus Evil, announced his departure from the company amidst ongoing litigation against tinyBuild. Escalante accused the publisher of breaching their contracted obligations during the acquisition of Versus Evil. Despite the legal tension, tinyBuild recently revealed that they had settled the litigation by agreeing to pay the claimants a significant sum of $3.5 million in addition to legal costs. This settlement, however, could not salvage the sinking ship that was Versus Evil.
The closure of Versus Evil and the recent shutdown of Hakjak Studio, the developers behind the eagerly anticipated Pigeon Simulator, bear witness to the tumultuous landscape of the video game industry. Throughout 2023, the industry has witnessed numerous layoffs, causing upheaval and uncertainty among game developers and enthusiasts alike. According to estimations from videogamelayoffs.com, approximately 10,000 game industry professionals have suffered from job losses this year alone. This alarming trend raises concerns about the future of the industry, leaving individuals with apprehension and an air of pessimism.
As we bid farewell to Versus Evil, we must acknowledge and cherish the significant contributions they made to the indie game scene. The publisher’s passion for delivering exceptional gaming experiences and fostering a strong community has left an indelible mark. Although the ending may be filled with sorrow and regret, we should remember the joy they brought to countless players over the years. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, we must strive to protect the creative endeavors of independent developers and publishers, in hopes of nurturing a thriving and resilient gaming landscape.
Amidst the trials and tribulations faced by Versus Evil, their legacy will endure. Their impact on the indie game industry will forever serve as a reminder of the power and artistry that lie within the realm of independent games. Let us remember Versus Evil with gratitude and optimism, cherishing the memories they have gifted us and fueling our anticipation for what the future of the indie game industry holds.
Leave a Reply