Hopoo Games, known for their popular roguelike games Risk Of Rain and Risk Of Rain 2, have announced that they will be shutting down their studio. The co-founders, Paul Morse and Duncan Drummond, along with other team members, are set to join Valve in game development roles. This decision comes as a surprise to many fans, especially since Hopoo Games was working on a new unannounced game called “Snail”. The developers shared the news on Xitter, expressing gratitude for the opportunities and support they have received over the past 12 years.
The move to Valve is not uncommon in the indie game development scene. Campo Santo, the creators of Firewatch, also made a similar transition to work at Valve. While it may seem like a loss for Hopoo Games fans, the developers are optimistic about the future. They are looking forward to collaborating with the talented individuals at Valve and continuing their passion for game development. It is a bittersweet moment for the team, but they are excited for what lies ahead.
The decision to shut down Hopoo Games comes after the lukewarm reception of Risk of Rain 2’s recent DLC. Despite selling the rights to Gearbox in 2022, the developers still expressed empathy for the current team working on the series. The future projects that the (ex) Hopoo team will be working on at Valve remain a mystery. Speculations suggest that they may be involved in the development of multiplayer shooter Deadlock or other undisclosed game ideas within the company.
Valve has a reputation for its enigmatic and non-hierarchical management structure. While the inner workings of the company may seem mysterious to outsiders, there have been glimpses into Valve’s unique approach to game development. From leaked company handbooks to personal accounts from former employees, Valve’s culture is a subject of fascination for many in the industry. The (ex) Hopoo team’s integration into Valve will undoubtedly bring about interesting collaborations and innovations in the future of gaming.
While the closure of Hopoo Games may come as a disappointment to fans, it marks a new chapter for the developers as they embark on a journey with Valve. The opportunities for creative freedom and collaboration at Valve offer an exciting prospect for the team. As they bid farewell to their studio, the (ex) Hopoo team looks forward to shaping the future of gaming alongside the talented individuals at Valve.