Three seasoned veterans from the UK’s gaming industry have come together to launch an exciting new indie publishing venture, known as The CoLab. spearheading this initiative are Darren Newnham, Mark Faulkner, and John Lewis. Newnham’s rich tapestry of experience includes roles at United Label, Fnatic, and Disney Interactive. Meanwhile, Faulkner has built an impressive career with experiences at Jagex, PlayFusion, and Bossa. Completing this trio, Lewis brings his expertise from his time at Codemasters and Criterion.
The CoLab isn’t wasting any time getting started, with three intriguing projects already underway. Among them is a charming game, currently under the working title Campfire, a thrilling cyberpunk shooter called DeadWire, and a strategic affair named Counter Clash. More than just about games, the publisher is also teaming up with the charity Safe in Our World, highlighting its commitment to the mental wellbeing of those working in the gaming world. In the face of what many see as challenging times for the industry, The CoLab is stepping up to support independent developers.
“We’re calling for a change,” says CEO Darren Newnham. “Cooperation and collaboration are crucial— and it’s something the industry is in dire need of right now.”
Reflecting on the current state of play, he continued, “We’ve witnessed trends like mass layoffs driven by what some term as ‘greedflation,’ shining a light on the need for a real shift in how we operate. Often, the race to satisfy shareholder demands means gamers get incomplete games at skyrocketing prices, while developers grapple with project cancellations, unpaid labor, and even the loss of their IP rights.”
The CoLab has a clear mission: to spearhead transformation with a revolutionary vision. By bringing together creative game makers, pooling resources, and empowering developers, the team is determined to help them flourish amidst fierce market competition. Their aim is that every developer who joins will become an indispensable part of The CoLab’s vibrant community, fostering an environment that encourages enduring partnerships and fruitful outcomes.
