Devolver Digital launches Big Fan Games label for indie-developed licensed games

Devolver Digital has announced that they have formed a new subsidiary with its own focus. Big Fan Games is a label devoted to publishing licensed games from smaller developers. Or, in their words, “helping independent game developers breathe new life into their favorite movies, comics, TV shows, and cult heroes through the power of video games.”

Since this is a business thing and all I have is this press release to pull info from, I’m going to just hit you with their words again. “When it comes to “licensed games”, we think there’s room for a new approach. One where indie developers get to make the call. To take some risks and explore unique ideas that aren’t dictated by spreadsheets. So we formed Big Fan to help make that dream a reality. From a team that carries a deep bench of experience working with games and entertainment properties like Dune, Star Wars, Blade Runner, Lord of the Rings, Hellboy, Evil Dead, John Wick, Blair Witch, The Power Rangers and more.”

Hold on. “The” Power Rangers. Did my mother write this? They didn’t even say “The” Lord of the Rings, like in, say, Tales of the Shire: A The Lord of the Rings Game.” To the PR person who wrote this, I swear I’m just teasing.

Anyway, no games have been revealed alongside the announcement of Big Fan Games, just some pre-existing ones like John Wick Hex. I actually know of an unannounced one that will probably be announced soon, but I can’t tell you anything because I pinky swore I wouldn’t. It’s pretty cool, though.

In recent years, licensed games tend to be massive productions that leverage something existing’s popularity to sell a lot of games. However, even 15 years ago, it was commonplace for films to get a tie-in adaptation. They were often mediocre and sometimes terrible, but… well, the best I can say is that they existed and their success didn’t have to depend on big numbers.

So, it seems like there’s a lot of opportunity there. Some properties don’t necessarily need a grand release and others would benefit from a more passionate staff that are working on something they care for. Whether or not you’re a fan of Illfonic’s asymmetrical multiplayer games, it’s usually pretty clear that the developer had a lot more care for the license than most. It’s a great asset to tap into.

The team at Big Fan Games is comprised of a number of industry vets who have worked on big licensed games in the past. I’m not sure who because the press released doesn’t say, but I don’t have any reason to doubt it.