Indie horror games have been reshaping the industry for years, but now they’re also changing how studios grow. Kinetic Games, the team behind the breakout co-op horror hit Phasmophobia, has announced that it is officially moving into indie publishing.
According to the studio, this new direction is aimed at supporting small teams and independent developers who already have a clear creative vision. Kinetic Games plans to offer help across areas such as funding, marketing, and industry know-how, with a focus on projects that are already in active development rather than early concepts. The goal is to help promising indie titles reach release without compromising their creative identity.
Crucially, the studio has been clear that this move does not shift its core focus away from its flagship game. Development on Phasmophobia will continue as normal, with the horror title remaining at the heart of Kinetic Games’ efforts. Indie publishing is being positioned as an expansion of the studio’s ambitions, not a replacement for game development.
This announcement also reflects a wider trend in the industry. Successful indie developers are increasingly reinvesting their success back into the scene, using their experience to lift up other creators. If done right, this approach could lead to more experimental, risk-taking games making it to market.
Do you think Kinetic Games’ move into publishing could open new doors for indie horror projects? What kind of games would you like to see backed by the studio? Share your thoughts and stay tuned to VGNW and follow us on X for the latest news and upcoming reveals.
