Palworld developer Pocketpair is branching out, establishing Pocketpair Publishing to support Surgent Studios' next project—a brand new horror game. This exciting venture, announced on X/Twitter, marks a significant step for both companies. While Surgent Studios previously captivated audiences with their debut title, Tales of Kenzera: Zau, this upcoming horror game will be a standalone experience, unrelated to that universe.
Surgent Studios CEO Abubakar Salim explained the collaboration, 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." He further clarified that while future projects set within the Tales of Kenzera universe are under discussion, this new title will stand alone, representing a pivotal point in their creative journey.
Although details remain scarce—no release window or title has been announced—the project is clearly in its early stages. This new endeavor is separate from Surgent Studios' previously revealed Project Uso.
Pocketpair Publishing is actively seeking new development partnerships, emphasizing a collaborative approach. Their website states, "We don't want to tell you what to do. We don’t want to take control from you. We don’t want to change your dream or push you to make a certain type of game."
John Buckley, Head of Pocketpair Publishing, elaborated on their 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. We are pleased to be able to support Surgent Studios’ new title as our first step. We deeply sympathize with their original ideas and passion and are honored to help them realize their vision. We will respect the autonomy and vision of developers and work together to make great games for people all over the world."
Salim, also known for his acting roles (including Bayek in Assassin's Creed Origins and Alyn of Hull in House of the Dragon), expressed his enthusiasm on X/Twitter, calling the partnership an "incredible honor." He added, "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, a single-player Metroidvania exploring themes of grief and love, received a positive 7/10 review from IGN, praised for its moving narrative. However, Surgent Studios faced challenges, including layoffs and funding difficulties, making Pocketpair's support particularly significant.
This collaboration comes as Pocketpair continues to navigate a patent infringement lawsuit filed by The Pokémon Company and Nintendo following the remarkable sales success of Palworld.
