Compulsion Games Regains Independence: A New Chapter Begins

Compulsion Games Completes Management Buyout, Becomes Independent from Microsoft

Montreal-based Compulsion Games, known for their game South of Midnight, has successfully completed a management buyout, signaling their independence from the Microsoft group.

The announcement, first reported by Gamesbeat, confirms the studio’s decision to go indie instead of being affected by Microsoft’s recent restructuring efforts. Additionally, Compulsion Games has regained ownership of all their intellectual property, meaning that any purchases of their games will now directly support the studio.

CEO Guillaume Provost stated, “I can confirm we have regained ownership of our IP, and that the publishing rights are transferring back to Compulsion. Buying the games is supporting the studio as a result of that change.”

Provost emphasized that the decision to pursue independence was primarily for the team’s benefit. He shared, “I did this deal for the team first and foremost. I asked the team, ‘Do you want to stay together?’ The team told me we would rather eat rocks and drink gasoline rather than be split up.”

While Compulsion Games will continue working on a game that was originally in development for Microsoft, Provost expressed the importance of ensuring the studio’s future stability. “I just want to make sure that we’re setting the team up for success,” he said. “We’re going to take things slow. We’re going to meet with everyone.”

Reflecting on the transition, Provost added, “Compared to all of us losing our jobs on July 6, this is a pretty good deal. I would say the exit was gracious on Microsoft’s part.”

Initially exclusive to Xbox, South of Midnight made its way to PlayStation 5 and Switch 2 this year, showcasing Compulsion Games’ dedication to expanding their reach in the gaming industry.

Review of South of Midnight

In a review of South of Midnight, the Southern Gothic aesthetic is praised for its uniqueness within the gaming landscape. The protagonist, Hazel, is portrayed as a compelling character, drawing players into her mysterious journey. The game was described as “another unmissable step on Microsoft’s path to redemption.”

Source: Gamesbeat