Industry Veterans from Disney, Jagex, Codemasters Launch New Publisher, The CoLab

Three well-known figures in the UK gaming scene have just launched an exciting new indie publishing company called The CoLab.

The team behind this venture consists of Darren Newnham, Mark Faulkner, and John Lewis. Newnham brings experience from his time at United Label, Fnatic, and Disney Interactive. Faulkner, on the other hand, has worked with companies like Jagex, PlayFusion, and Bossa. Meanwhile, Lewis boasts a solid background having been with Codemasters and Criterion.

Already, The CoLab has three promising projects in development. Among them are ‘Campfire,’ a cozy-themed game, the cyberpunk-style shooter ‘DeadWire,’ and a strategic offering called ‘Counter Clash.’ In an admirable move, they’ve teamed up with the charity Safe in Our World, putting forth a strong commitment to the mental well-being of industry workers. This focus comes as a beacon of support for indie developers during challenging times in the gaming world.

“It’s time for a rebellion. We stand for cooperation and collaboration in an industry that desperately needs it,” CEO Newnham passionately expressed.

He pointed out that current trends, such as widespread layoffs driven by what he calls ‘greedflation,’ highlight the urgent need for a change. Often, publishers prioritize shareholder interests over gamers’ needs, resulting in incomplete games hitting the market at high prices. Developers frequently endure the brunt of this system, facing cancellations, unpaid labor, and even losing their creative rights.

Our mission at The CoLab,” continues Newnham, “is to drive change by championing a counter-revolution in the gaming industry. We align with visionary game creators, pool resources, and empower developers to excel in a fiercely competitive field. Our aim is to ensure every developer who joins forces with The CoLab becomes a vital member of our collective, promoting a nurturing atmosphere that supports lasting partnerships and meaningful rewards.”