The Chinese Room buys out Sumo Digital, gains independence

Acclaimed British Studio Regains Independence

The Chinese Room, the celebrated British indie developer behind last year's acclaimed horror title Still Wakes the Deep, has officially severed ties with former parent company Sumo Digital.

The Brighton-based studio, known for creating narrative masterpieces like Dear Esther and Everybody's Gone to the Rapture, has completed a management buyout, confirmed by a studio spokesperson to IGN.

Charting a New Independent Future

This development follows months of uncertainty after Sumo Digital announced plans to refocus on partner development services rather than maintaining original IP development.

Studio director Ed Daly will now lead The Chinese Room as an independent entity, with the buyout facilitated by venture capital firm Hiro Capital.

"This gives us creative freedom to develop new original IP while collaborating with partners that align with our vision," Daly told press.

Upcoming Projects and Continued Legacy

Fresh from launching Still Wakes the Deep and its Siren's Rest DLC, the studio is currently developing two new original IPs. The long-awaited Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines 2, scheduled for October release through Paradox Interactive, remains their next major title.

"They represent British creative excellence competing globally," said Hiro Capital's Spike Laurie, warning about the risk of losing such talent to overseas acquisition.

The move safeguards one of Britain's leading creative game studios at a time when the £5.5 billion UK gaming industry faces increasing foreign acquisition pressure.