Hopoo Games, the talented studio behind the popular Risk Of Rain series, has announced that they will be closing their doors to embark on a new journey at Valve. Co-founders Paul Morse and Duncan Drummond, along with other team members, will be joining the renowned game developer to explore new opportunities in game development. This marks the end of an era for Hopoo Games, as they bid farewell to their fans and the games they have created over the past 12 years. The decision to move to Valve comes with mixed emotions, as the team reflects on the memories and achievements they have made together.
A Trend in Indie Studios
The absorption of indie studios by larger developers is not a new phenomenon. Campo Santo, the creators of Firewatch, made a similar move to Valve in the past, putting their own projects on hold to join the team. The industry is ever-evolving, with opportunities and challenges that lead to decisions such as these. The recent shift at Hopoo Games also coincides with the departure of the studio from the Risk Of Rain series, following the sale of the rights to Gearbox. Despite the mixed reception of the latest DLC, the team at Hopoo Games remains supportive of the new developers working on the franchise.
The Mystery of Valve
As Hopoo Games transitions to Valve, the question remains: what will they be working on next? Speculations point to Valve’s multiplayer shooter Deadlock as a potential project for the team. However, the nature of game development at Valve is shrouded in mystery, with projects gaining and losing traction within the company. The unique non-hierarchical management structure at Valve has been a topic of interest for many, with insights from former employees shedding light on the company’s internal dynamics. While the future may be uncertain, the team at Hopoo Games is eager to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead at Valve.
The closure of Hopoo Games marks the end of an era for the studio, but also the beginning of a new chapter at Valve. The talented developers behind Risk Of Rain have made a lasting impact on the gaming industry, and their journey continues with new adventures at Valve. As they bid farewell to their fans and past projects, the team looks ahead with excitement and anticipation for what the future holds.
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