Disney, Codemasters, and Jagex veterans launch indie publishing label The CoLab
A team of seasoned professionals with backgrounds at well-known gaming companies like Disney, Jagex, and Codemasters have unveiled The CoLab, a new UK independent publishing brand that aims to “respond to the numerous prevailing negative trends within the broader gaming industry.”
The six-member team is spearheaded by CEO Darren Newnham (previously the chief executive officer at United Brand and industry growth manager at Disney), creative director John Lewis (formerly senior art director at Codemasters and lead environment artist at Criterion Games), and production lead Value Faulkner (previously product director at Jagex and executive producer at PlayFusion).
The CoLab’s initial lineup features intriguing projects such as Counter Clash, an overhead cyberpunk shooter named DeadWire, and a pleasant adventure codenamed ‘Campfire’ where players can share personal stories and listen to others while gathered around a warm fire.
“We advocate for collaboration and unity in an industry that urgently requires it,” stated Newnham in a statement. “Recent developments, such as mass layoffs driven by ‘greedflation,’ have highlighted the need for a fundamental shift.
“Publishers typically give preference to shareholder value over the interests of gamers, leading to a cycle of incomplete games released at excessive prices, while developers have encountered issues including cancellations, unpaid work, and even the loss of intellectual property.”
Related:Nintendo delays Switch 2 pre-orders in the U.S. due to Trump tariffs
The CEO mentioned the brand aims to integrate its partner developers into a “community” by nurturing a “supportive environment that encourages long-term relationships and rewarding outcomes.”
The CoLab has allied with the UK charity Safe in Our World to promote mental health awareness within the industry and has committed to “ensuring that every employee feels secure and valued in their positions.”
The brand is expected to release additional titles in 2025 and is currently preparing for its 2026 launch lineup. It also plans to conduct “developer knowledge sharing sessions” later this year.