Warner Bros. Discovery is reportedly considering removing games published by its Adult Swim Games label, potentially impacting several titles available on Steam and other digital platforms. According to Polygon, developers who have worked with the publisher have received warnings regarding the games potentially being “retired.” While the fate of some titles is still uncertain, at least three games are currently under threat of being delisted.
This move by Warner Bros. Discovery follows similar cuts made within its film and television business, including the cancellation of planned releases for movies such as “Batgirl” and “Coyote vs. Acme,” as well as the removal of multiple series from its streaming services. If the publisher proceeds with its plans, it might affect a total of 18 or more games published by Adult Swim.
Owen Reedy, a developer who released a puzzle-adventure game called “Small Radios Big Televisions” under the Adult Swim Games label in 2016, was among the first to report Warner Bros. Discovery’s intention to remove the games from platforms like Steam and the PlayStation Store. Reedy took action by making the Windows PC version of the game available for free download from his studio’s website.
When Polygon reached out to other developers who had worked with Adult Swim Games, two studios confirmed receiving similar warnings from Warner Bros. Discovery. However, they still remain uncertain regarding the fate of their own games.
One of the affected developers, Michael Molinari, who released “Soundodger+” through Adult Swim Games in 2013, revealed that he was informed by a Warner Bros. Discovery representative that his game would be removed from Steam within the next 60 days. Molinari attempted to negotiate the transfer of ownership to his company but was unsuccessful in his request. He expressed frustration that over a decade’s worth of downloads, community guides, reviews, and patch notes related to the game might suddenly disappear.
Warner Bros. Discovery allegedly allowed Molinari to republish “Soundodger+” on Steam, but this option posed its own set of issues. If he were to republish the game, it would result in the loss of wishlists, reviews, community guides, forum discussions, and the inability for old and new owners of the game to compare achievements and trading cards.
Matt Lewandowski from studio Team2Bit, the developer behind the Adult Swim Games-published “Fist Puncher,” shared a similar experience. Warner Bros. Discovery contacted Lewandowski with a warning regarding the potential removal of the game, attributing it to “internal business changes.” Team2Bit expressed hope that the publisher would transfer ownership of the game back to their studio.
Polygon attempted to gather information from other studios and solo developers who had their games published by Adult Swim Games. Although some developers claimed they hadn’t received any communication from Warner Bros. Discovery, they anticipated hearing from the company soon.
The potential removal of Adult Swim Games’ catalog raises questions regarding the future of these games and the impact it might have on the industry as a whole. Game preservation and proper crediting of developers are crucial aspects that need to be considered. The sudden disappearance of games might result in the loss of valuable experiences, communities, and historical records.
In terms of trends and current events, the situation highlights the challenges faced by small studios when working with large conglomerates. Despite the potential setbacks faced by developers due to these decisions, the industry has witnessed a rise in self-publishing, allowing creators to maintain control over their games and reach out to their audiences directly.
Looking ahead, it is essential for studios to consider alternative distribution methods and platforms that prioritize game preservation and respect for developers’ rights. Collaboration between publishers and independent studios should focus on creating sustainable business models and transparent communication channels.
As for recommendations for the industry, it is crucial for publishers like Warner Bros. Discovery to prioritize the interests of developers and respect the legacies of games they have helped bring to life. Platforms should also strive to implement systems that safeguard historical records and preserve gaming experiences for future generations.
In conclusion, the potential removal of Adult Swim Games’ titles by Warner Bros. Discovery raises important questions regarding game preservation and the treatment of developers. It serves as a reminder for the industry to prioritize transparency, communication, and the preservation of gaming history. Looking ahead, studios should explore self-publishing options and collaborative models that empower developers while ensuring the longevity of their creations.
