KeokeN Interactive, the developer behind the renowned games Deliver Us Mars and Deliver Us The Moon, has let go of all its staff. This comes after unsuccessful attempts to secure funding at the Game Developers Conference. According to KeokeN’s CEO Koen Deetman and Managing Director Paul Deetman, the studio explored every possible avenue for funding, including seeking publishers and contract work, without success.
Despite the layoffs, the Deetman brothers are committed to supporting their former staff in finding new roles in the industry. They are reaching out to companies that might need skilled workers in various gaming development areas.
Heartbroken, we've had to lay off our team at KeokeN because of nothing substantial materializing directly after our visit to GDC. We’ve unfortunately exhausted all our possible options for publishing, work for hire, and co-development.
It is our utmost priority to make sure our… pic.twitter.com/3QHzJzgCfl
— KeokeN Interactive🐧 (@KeokeN) April 30, 2024
Moreover, the studio is not giving up on its creative journey. They plan to launch a Kickstarter campaign for their next project, Deliver Us Home, to involve the gaming community directly in its development. This campaign aims to keep the spirit of KeokeN alive and ensure the continuation of their gaming legacy.
As they rebuild, the founders express both heartbreak over the layoffs and determination to move forward. They believe this Kickstarter could be a crucial step in reviving their studio and continuing to deliver unique gaming experiences.
