Pocketpair, the developer behind the hit game Palworld, is expanding its horizons into the publishing world with the launch of Pocketpair Publishing. They've announced their first project: supporting Surgent Studios, the team behind the debut title *Tales of Kenzera: Zau*, in creating a brand new horror game. This venture marks a significant step for both companies, as the horror game will not be a continuation of the *Tales of Kenzera* universe but rather a standalone project exploring new themes.
Surgent Studios CEO Abubakar Salim highlighted the game's unique concept, stating, "We noticed a pattern in the entertainment industry, and Pocketpair has given us the opportunity to make a horror game about it. Both Surgent and Pocketpair are well versed in taking risks. This game will be short and weird, and we think players will be interested in what we have to say." Salim also mentioned ongoing discussions about further projects within the *Tales of Kenzera* universe, indicating that the studio is not abandoning its roots but exploring new creative avenues.
While no release window or title has been announced for the horror game, it's clear that the project is still in its early stages. This development is separate from the previously shared Project Uso concept by Surgent Studios. Meanwhile, Pocketpair Publishing is actively seeking pitches from other developers, emphasizing a hands-off approach that respects the creative autonomy of game creators.
John Buckley, head of Pocketpair Publishing, shared the company's vision: "At Pocketpair, there is nothing we love more than games, and Pocketpair Publishing is our latest venture to help the world enjoy gaming even more. Game development comes with many challenges, but we want to ease that process as much as possible and provide an environment where creators can pursue their dreams." Buckley expressed enthusiasm about supporting Surgent Studios' new title, highlighting the alignment of their visions and the honor of being their first publishing partner.
Abubakar Salim, who also lends his talents to acting with roles in *Assassin's Creed Origins*, *House of the Dragon*, and as the titular character in *Tales of Kenzera: Zau*, expressed his excitement about the partnership on X/Twitter. He emphasized the positive impact this collaboration could have on the gaming industry, stating, "This is the energy I want to see driving games in 2025: developers lifting each other up, creating together, and pushing the industry forward."
*Tales of Kenzera: Zau* itself is a single-player Metroidvania game that delves into themes of grief and love, earning a commendable 7/10 in IGN's review. Despite its positive reception, the game did not achieve the commercial success needed to sustain the studio, leading to layoffs in July and further funding struggles by October. The support from Pocketpair Publishing could prove crucial for Surgent Studios' future endeavors.
On another front, Pocketpair continues to navigate legal challenges, as it faces a patent infringement lawsuit from The Pokémon Company and Nintendo following Palworld's record-breaking sales success. Despite these hurdles, Pocketpair's move into publishing represents a bold step forward in the gaming industry, fostering creativity and collaboration among developers.
