The Chinese Room, the developer behind titles like Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 and Still Wakes The Deep, has signed a publishing deal with Lyrical Games for a new title.
In the partnership, Lyrical Games will provide financing, production support, and market planning to The Chinese Room, while the developer holds all creative autonomy and IP ownership. The game in question hasn’t been announced yet, though it will be one of the first titles since The Chinese Room completed a management buyout from Sumo Digital last year.
Lyrical Games is a newly-formed game publisher that’s focusing on independent and AA titles, making it a great choice for The Chinese Room, which is now an independent studio after the buyout. The new publisher has two titles currently set to release this year: Erosion (Plot Twist) and Valor Mortis (One More Level).
The Chinese Room has had significant success, both critically and among players, for its narrative-driven games. The developing studio has won 6 BAFTAs and had dozens of accolades, making it a great fit for Lyrical Games, which was looking for “distinctive, high-craft projects.”
Head of Lyrical Games Blake Rochkind shared thoughts on the deal with The Chinese Room:
“From our earliest conversations with The Chinese Room, it was immediately clear we had to back this strong vision for the world that they wanted to build. Now more than ever, our role as a publisher is to remove friction from their journey. We’re committed to providing them with clarity and resources so that they can focus on making this title truly exceptional.”
Ed Daly, the CEO of The Chinese Room, also explained the benefits of the new publishing deal:
“Our partnership with Lyrical Games gives us the confidence and support to push creatively in the ways that are needed to stand out in today’s market. Now, we can focus on elevating the player experience while Lyrical ensures that the game reaches those players.”
For more gaming industry news, check out the publishing deal between Arc Games and Full Metal Bagel for Hell Express, as well as the recent restructuring changes within Ubisoft that has led to multiple cancelled titles.
