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Former Sony Online CEO John Smedley Announces New Company, Kickstarter Campaign
Following a tumultuous exit from Daybreak Games (formerly Sony Online Entertainment), the company’s long-time CEO has announced a new studio. Pixelmage Games has also revealed its first game, which will be heading to Kickstarter.
Hero’s Song is described as a 2D pixel action-RPG. Pixelmage has enlisted the services of Bill Trost, Everquest lead designer and series co-creator, and author Patrick Rothfuss (The Name of the Wind).
The campaign goal is set at $800,000. Pixelmage says it has raised $1 million already and anticipates delivery of the game in October 2016.
Pixelmage sees Smedley back on his feet after an unexpected exit for Daybreak. Last year was tumultuous year for the company, following a spin off from the Sony mothership. The newly rebranded Daybreak made staffing changes (including layoffs that impacted Everquest director of development Dave Georgeson).
In July 2015, Smedley took to Twitter, berating a recently convicted cyber-criminal in Finland. The young man was convicted of a number of counts, but Smedley’s interest was personal. The individual was at least partially responsible for a bomb threat that brought down a plane on which the CEO was flying in August 2014.
Smedley stepped down as president and then left the company entirely. He announced he was forming a new company, but no details were made available.
The Hero's Song Kickstarter campaign is now live. Pixelmage says it is differentiating it from other entries in the genre by giving players control over their own worlds. You'll be able to shape your own version of the game environment by choosing from a pantheon of gods that will determine elements of play. You'll also be able to join realms created by others. You can see the full campaign pitch on Kickstarter.
Our Take
Kickstarter seems to be the go-to these days for many developers that leave established companies. This game seems surprising for someone who spent so many years at a company known for massive games and technological innovation.
\With $1 million raised and only $800,000 requested, there seems to be a piece of the puzzle missing. The budget seems extremely low, especially with a notable author like Rothfuss connected.
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